NASCAR 2026 Truck Series Kicks Off with Daytona Qualifying Drama

The season-opening Fresh From Florida 250 at Daytona International Speedway features a competitive 36-car field and high stakes for drivers and teams.

Feb. 13, 2026 at 6:47pm

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The 2026 NASCAR Truck Series season will commence this weekend at the Daytona International Speedway with the Fresh From Florida 250, a 100-lap, 250-mile race scheduled for Friday, February 13. The qualifying session will determine the starting grid, with 31 drivers securing spots based on speed and 5 positions allocated through owner points. Last year's winner, Corey Heim, is notably absent from the entry list, adding uncertainty to the competition.

Why it matters

The Fresh From Florida 250 is not only the start of the NASCAR 2026 Truck Series but also a critical indicator of driver and team readiness for the season ahead. With a highly competitive field and limited grid spots, qualifying becomes crucial for drivers aiming to make an early statement in the championship race.

The details

The Daytona track, which has been a staple in motorsports since it opened in 1959, stretches 2.5 miles per lap and continues to challenge drivers with its historic layout and high speeds. Practice sessions began on Thursday, February 12, allowing teams and drivers to fine-tune their setups ahead of Friday's qualifying session. The qualifying results will determine the starting grid, with 31 drivers securing spots based on speed and 5 positions allocated through owner points.

  • The 2026 NASCAR Truck Series season will commence this weekend at the Daytona International Speedway with the Fresh From Florida 250, scheduled for 7:30 pm ET on Friday, February 13.
  • Practice sessions began on Thursday, February 12, allowing teams and drivers to fine-tune their setups ahead of Friday's qualifying session.

The players

Corey Heim

Last year's winner of the Fresh From Florida 250 at Daytona International Speedway.

Timmy Hill

Owner and driver at Hilli Motorsports, who will be the first to take the track for qualifying.

Andres Perez de Lara

Drives for Niece Motorsports and will be the final driver to qualify for the Fresh From Florida 250.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

The takeaway

The Fresh From Florida 250 at Daytona International Speedway marks the start of the 2026 NASCAR Truck Series season, and the qualifying session will be a crucial indicator of driver and team readiness for the championship race ahead. With a highly competitive field and limited grid spots, the event will set the tone for the season and provide an exciting start to the year for motorsports fans.