Tyler Reddick Wins Daytona 500, Michael Jordan Celebrates

Chaos and drama at the iconic NASCAR race as a new champion emerges and a sports legend adds to his legacy.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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In a wild and unpredictable Daytona 500, Tyler Reddick emerged victorious, capturing his first career NASCAR Cup Series championship. The race was marked by numerous crashes and cautions, but Reddick navigated the chaos to take the checkered flag. Adding to the drama, team owner Michael Jordan celebrated in Victory Lane, as his 23XI Racing team earned its first Daytona 500 triumph.

Why it matters

The Daytona 500 is NASCAR's marquee event, and a win here can make or break a driver's season. Reddick's victory is a major milestone in his young career, while Jordan's first Daytona 500 win as a team owner further cements his status as a sports icon who has found success in team ownership.

The details

Reddick, driving the No. 8 car for Richard Childress Racing, held off a hard-charging field in the closing laps to secure the victory. The race featured numerous crashes, including a multi-car pileup on the final lap that brought out a caution. Reddick managed to avoid the chaos and cross the finish line first, earning his first Daytona 500 triumph. In Victory Lane, he was joined by team owner Michael Jordan, who celebrated his first Daytona 500 win as the co-owner of 23XI Racing.

  • The Daytona 500 took place on February 16, 2026.
  • Reddick took the checkered flag at approximately 3:24 PM local time.

The players

Tyler Reddick

A 30-year-old NASCAR Cup Series driver who captured his first Daytona 500 victory.

Michael Jordan

NBA legend and co-owner of the 23XI Racing team, which earned its first Daytona 500 win.

Richard Childress Racing

The NASCAR team that fields the No. 8 car driven by Tyler Reddick.

23XI Racing

The NASCAR team co-owned by Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin, which won its first Daytona 500.

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What they’re saying

“This is a dream come true. To win the Daytona 500, it's just unbelievable.”

— Tyler Reddick, NASCAR Cup Series Driver (1010 WCSI)

“I'm so proud of this team and what we've been able to accomplish. Winning the Daytona 500 is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved.”

— Michael Jordan (1010 WCSI)

What’s next

Reddick and the No. 8 team will look to build on their Daytona 500 victory as the NASCAR Cup Series season continues. Meanwhile, Michael Jordan and 23XI Racing will aim to capture more checkered flags throughout the year.

The takeaway

Tyler Reddick's Daytona 500 triumph is a career-defining moment, while Michael Jordan's first win as a team owner further solidifies his status as one of the greatest sports figures of all time. The chaos and drama of the 'Great American Race' once again delivered an unforgettable chapter in NASCAR history.