Tyler Reddick Wins Chaotic 2026 Daytona 500 in Last-Lap Pass

Reddick secures first Daytona 500 victory in dramatic fashion, overcoming a winless 2025 season

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The 2026 Daytona 500 concluded in a dramatic fashion, with Tyler Reddick emerging victorious after a last-lap pass amidst a chaotic series of crashes. Reddick, propelled by a push from teammate Riley Herbst, overtook Chase Elliott on the outside and crossed the finish line, winning by a mere 0.308 seconds over Ricky Stenhouse Jr. The final lap was marked by a series of dramatic shifts in the lead, with Reddick becoming the 25th different leader of the race, an absolute record.

Why it matters

Reddick's triumph not only marks a strong start to the season but also represents a redemption story following his winless 2025 season. The dramatic finish and multiple lead changes throughout the race highlight the unpredictable nature of the Daytona 500, where glory is often determined by fractions of a second.

The details

In the closing meters of the race, Reddick, propelled by a push from teammate Riley Herbst, overtook Chase Elliott on the outside and crossed the finish line. A subsequent multi-car collision unfolded behind him as drivers desperately attempted to gain position. The final lap was marked by a series of dramatic shifts in the lead, with Reddick becoming the 25th different leader of the race, an absolute record.

  • The 2026 Daytona 500 took place on Sunday, February 15, 2026.

The players

Tyler Reddick

The winner of the 2026 Daytona 500, securing his first victory in the iconic race.

Riley Herbst

Reddick's teammate, who provided a crucial push that helped Reddick secure the victory.

Chase Elliott

The driver who was leading the race on the final lap before Reddick's last-lap pass.

Ricky Stenhouse Jr.

The 2023 Daytona 500 champion, who finished second in the 2026 race.

Michael Jordan

The co-owner of 23XI Racing, the team for which Reddick and Herbst drive.

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What they’re saying

“Last year was really hard for all of us, hard for me. When you're a Cup driver and you get to this level and drive for Michael Jordan, it's expected you win every single year.”

— Tyler Reddick (newsdirectory3.com)

“That shows you what teamwork can do. He doesn't get enough credit, but we know exactly what he did.”

— Michael Jordan, Co-owner, 23XI Racing (newsdirectory3.com)

“It was a chaotic finish. I had a great run coming, but the block just didn't give us any option.”

— Brad Keselowski (newsdirectory3.com)

“I thought I had blocked enough on the top, but I didn't check enough. It was my mistake.”

— Justin Allgaier (newsdirectory3.com)

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.