Chaos and Drama at Daytona 500: Best Radio Moments

From wrecks to last-lap heroics, the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series opener was full of excitement

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The 2026 Daytona 500 was a wild race filled with crashes, close calls, and dramatic moments. This article highlights the best in-car radio audio that captured the drivers' experiences in real-time, from early wrecks to the thrilling finish that saw Tyler Reddick of 23XI Racing take the checkered flag.

Why it matters

The Daytona 500 is NASCAR's marquee event, and the in-car radio audio provides fans a unique behind-the-scenes perspective on the chaos and intensity of the race. These radio moments give insight into the drivers' mindsets and decision-making as they navigate the high-stakes environment of the "Great American Race."

The details

The race featured several major wrecks, including a 20-car pileup in Stage 2 that left drivers like Riley Herbst and Alex Bowman stunned. There was also drama on the final lap, as Tyler Reddick made a bold move to pass Chase Elliott for the win, leaving Elliott to apologize to his team. Throughout it all, the radio audio captured the drivers' raw emotions and reactions in the heat of the moment.

  • The first wreck occurred in Stage 1, with William Byron and others caught up.
  • An even bigger crash happened in Stage 2, collecting Austin Dillon and others.
  • The "Big One" 20-car wreck took place later in Stage 2.
  • On the final lap, Tyler Reddick made the winning pass on Chase Elliott.

The players

Tyler Reddick

The winner of the 2026 Daytona 500, driving for the 23XI Racing team.

Chase Elliott

The driver who led late but was passed by Reddick on the final lap.

Austin Dillon

A driver involved in the major Stage 2 crash, lamenting his decision to choose the bottom lane.

Connor Zilisch

A driver confused and unsure of what to do after being caught up in the Stage 2 wreck.

Bubba Wallace

The driver who avoided the Stage 2 crash to briefly take the lead.

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What they’re saying

“Wrecking, wrecking right in our lane. Right in our lane.”

— William Byron (foxsports.com)

“I knew it. I know [expletive] better. I shouldn't have chose the bottom lane.”

— Austin Dillon (foxsports.com)

“Where are we going? I have no idea! I don't even know where the [expletive] they're taking us!”

— Connor Zilisch (foxsports.com)

“Tell Brad to [expletive] off. We're not going to go anywhere. There's three Toyotas roadblocking us.”

— Noah Gragson (foxsports.com)

“YESSSSS!!!”

— Tyler Reddick (foxsports.com)

What’s next

The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season will continue with the second race at Auto Club Speedway on February 26.

The takeaway

The Daytona 500 once again delivered high drama and excitement, with the in-car radio audio providing fans a unique perspective on the chaos and intensity of NASCAR's biggest race. The thrilling finish and Tyler Reddick's first Daytona 500 victory for 23XI Racing will be remembered as one of the highlights of the 2026 season.