Tyler Reddick Trusts Instincts in Daytona 500 Finish

NASCAR driver dismisses usual chaos of final laps to claim victory

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Tyler Reddick, the winner of the 2026 Daytona 500, says he ignored the typical mayhem and chaos that often erupts in the final laps of the prestigious NASCAR race and instead trusted his instincts to guide him to victory.

Why it matters

The Daytona 500 is one of the most watched and anticipated events in motorsports, with drivers often facing unpredictable conditions and high-stakes maneuvers in the closing moments. Reddick's ability to stay calm and focused amid the usual pandemonium is a testament to his skill and experience as a top NASCAR competitor.

The details

Reddick, who drives for Richard Childress Racing, said he was able to tune out the typical last-lap chaos that often defines the Daytona 500 and instead rely on his instincts and race strategy to secure the victory. Many drivers and crew members had commented on the frenetic nature of the final laps, but Reddick said he was able to maintain his composure and make the right moves to cross the finish line first.

  • The 2026 Daytona 500 took place on February 16, 2026.

The players

Tyler Reddick

The winner of the 2026 Daytona 500 and a top NASCAR driver for Richard Childress Racing.

Brad Keselowski

A veteran NASCAR driver who commented on the usual chaos that erupts in the final laps of the Daytona 500.

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What they’re saying

“Yeah, a lot of chaos,”

— Brad Keselowski (wn.com)

The takeaway

Reddick's ability to remain calm and focused amid the typical last-lap pandemonium of the Daytona 500 showcases his skill and experience as an elite NASCAR driver, and his victory serves as a testament to the importance of maintaining composure under pressure in the high-stakes world of professional auto racing.