Official Starting Lineup Revealed for 2026 Daytona 500

Pole position goes to Kyle Busch as drivers prepare for the Great American Race

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The starting lineup for the 2026 Daytona 500 has been officially set following Thursday night's America 250 Duel races. Kyle Busch will start on the pole position, with Chase Briscoe joining him on the front row. Joey Logano and Chase Elliott, the winners of the Duel races, will start directly behind them.

Why it matters

The Daytona 500 is one of the most prestigious and watched races in NASCAR, kicking off the new season. The starting lineup determines the initial order of the 500-mile race, which will be a crucial factor in how the race unfolds and who ultimately takes the checkered flag.

The details

Kyle Busch secured the pole position after topping Chase Briscoe in qualifying on Wednesday. In the Thursday night Duel races, Joey Logano and Chase Elliott emerged victorious, earning them the third and fourth starting positions respectively. Several other notable drivers like Ryan Blaney, Kyle Larson, and Denny Hamlin will start further back in the field.

  • Kyle Busch topped Chase Briscoe for the pole position on Wednesday.
  • The America 250 Duel qualifier races were held on Thursday night.
  • The 2026 Daytona 500 is scheduled for Sunday.

The players

Kyle Busch

The pole position winner for the 2026 Daytona 500, driving for Richard Childress Racing.

Chase Briscoe

Will start on the front row alongside Kyle Busch, driving for Joe Gibbs Racing.

Joey Logano

Won one of the America 250 Duel races, earning him the third starting position for the Daytona 500.

Chase Elliott

Won the other America 250 Duel race, securing the fourth starting position for the Daytona 500.

BJ McLeod

Will race in the Daytona 500 after Anthony Alfredo's car failed post-race inspection.

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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 (San Francisco Chronicle)

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

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.