Tyler Reddick Wins Daytona 500 After Wild Final Lap

Reddick prevails after multiple late-race crashes in the season-opening NASCAR race.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In a chaotic finish to the 2026 Daytona 500, Tyler Reddick emerged victorious after a wild, wreck-filled final lap that saw multiple crashes but no yellow flag from NASCAR officials. Reddick managed to navigate the carnage and cross the finish line first to claim the checkered flag in the season-opening NASCAR race.

Why it matters

The Daytona 500 is NASCAR's marquee event, kicking off the new season with high drama and excitement. Reddick's win marks his first career Daytona 500 victory, establishing him as an early championship contender. The late-race crashes and lack of a caution flag also sparked debate around NASCAR's officiating decisions and their impact on the outcome.

The details

On the final lap, the first major incident occurred when several cars collided, but NASCAR surprisingly did not throw the yellow flag, allowing the race to continue. Moments later, an even bigger crash erupted, but again no caution was displayed, enabling Reddick to navigate the chaos and take the checkered flag. The decision not to throw the yellow flag during the late mayhem was a controversial one that will likely be scrutinized in the days to come.

  • The 2026 Daytona 500 took place on February 15, 2026.
  • The wild final lap and Reddick's victory occurred on the afternoon of February 15, 2026.

The players

Tyler Reddick

The 30-year-old driver who won the 2026 Daytona 500, his first career victory in NASCAR's marquee event.

NASCAR

The sanctioning body that oversees the top levels of stock car racing in the United States, including the Daytona 500.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I can't believe I won the Daytona 500! It was absolute chaos out there, but we managed to survive and come out on top. This is a dream come true.”

— Tyler Reddick, Race Winner (NASCAR.com)

“The decision not to throw the yellow flag was certainly a controversial one, and it will be interesting to see how NASCAR defends their officiating in the coming days. It had a major impact on the outcome of the race.”

— Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver (ESPN)

What’s next

NASCAR officials are expected to review the late-race incidents and their decision-making process in the coming days, potentially leading to changes or clarifications in their caution flag policies.

The takeaway

Tyler Reddick's Daytona 500 victory, earned through his ability to navigate a chaotic final lap, underscores the unpredictable nature of NASCAR's biggest race. The controversial officiating decisions will likely be a major talking point in the early part of the 2026 season.