Austin Hill wins pole for NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series race

The new name for NASCAR's second-tier circuit kicks off its 2026 season at Daytona International Speedway.

Feb. 14, 2026 at 7:47pm

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NASCAR's second-tier series, formerly known as the Xfinity Series, has a new name - the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series. During qualifying on Saturday, February 14, 2026, Austin Hill won the pole position, posting the fastest lap time for the series' first race of the season at Daytona International Speedway.

Why it matters

The O'Reilly Auto Parts Series is an important feeder system for NASCAR's top-level Cup Series, providing a platform for up-and-coming drivers to showcase their talents. The season-opening race at Daytona is a marquee event that sets the tone for the rest of the year.

The details

Austin Hill, a rising star in the NASCAR ranks, secured the pole position for the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series season opener at Daytona International Speedway. Hill laid down the fastest lap time during qualifying, earning the top starting spot for the highly anticipated race.

  • The qualifying session took place on Saturday, February 14, 2026.
  • The O'Reilly Auto Parts Series race at Daytona International Speedway is the first event of the 2026 season.

The players

Austin Hill

A talented up-and-coming driver in the NASCAR ranks who won the pole position for the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series season opener at Daytona International Speedway.

O'Reilly Auto Parts Series

The new name for NASCAR's second-tier circuit, formerly known as the Xfinity Series, which serves as a feeder system for the top-level Cup Series.

Daytona International Speedway

The iconic racetrack in Daytona Beach, Florida that hosts the season-opening event for the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series.

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The takeaway

The name change and season-opening race at Daytona International Speedway mark an exciting new chapter for NASCAR's second-tier series, as it continues to serve as a crucial pipeline for up-and-coming drivers to showcase their talents and potentially earn a spot in the elite Cup Series.