Rams' Nacua Joins NASCAR Star Bubba Wallace for Daytona 500 Ride-Along

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua got the thrill of a lifetime racing around Daytona International Speedway with NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace.

Feb. 18, 2026 at 8:23am

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Los Angeles Rams star wide receiver Puka Nacua was named an honorary race official for the 2026 Daytona 500 and got to take a high-speed ride-along with NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace around the iconic Daytona International Speedway. Nacua, who had a breakout 1,400-yard season as a rookie in 2023, said the experience was "the best thing I think I've ever experienced" as he got to feel the power and speed of a NASCAR stock car firsthand.

Why it matters

The crossover between the NFL and NASCAR continues to grow, with high-profile athletes from both sports frequently making appearances and participating in each other's events. Nacua's ride-along with Wallace highlights the increasing synergy between the two leagues as they look to engage fans and attract new audiences.

The details

As an honorary race official, Nacua helped navigate the start of the Daytona 500 before taking his high-speed ride-along with Wallace, the three-time Cup Series winner and reigning Brickyard 400 champion who drives the No. 23 car for Michael Jordan's 23XI Racing team. Wallace took Nacua around the high-banked Daytona oval, giving the Rams' star receiver a taste of the thrill and intensity of NASCAR racing.

  • Nacua joined forces with Wallace before the Daytona 500 on February 17, 2026.
  • The 2026 Daytona 500 took place on February 17, 2026.

The players

Puka Nacua

A star wide receiver for the Los Angeles Rams who had a breakout 1,400-yard season as a rookie in 2023.

Bubba Wallace

A three-time NASCAR Cup Series winner and the reigning Brickyard 400 champion, who drives the No. 23 car for Michael Jordan's 23XI Racing team.

Michael Jordan

The owner of the 23XI Racing NASCAR team, which fields cars for drivers like Bubba Wallace.

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What they’re saying

“It was the best thing I think I've ever experienced. I love being in the heat of the moment, and I don't think being in the heat of the moment was like that before. It was awesome.”

— Puka Nacua

What’s next

Nacua will look to build on his breakout 2023 season with the Rams, who will likely look to sign the star receiver to a long-term contract extension this offseason as he becomes eligible.

The takeaway

The growing crossover between the NFL and NASCAR highlights the increasing synergy between the two leagues as they look to engage fans and attract new audiences through high-profile athlete appearances and shared experiences.