Illinois Driver Justin Allgaier Has Chance to Win Daytona 500

Allgaier, the 2024 Xfinity Series champion, is the only Illinois driver in the race.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Daytona 500, one of the most prestigious races in America, is taking place today. While there is only one driver from Illinois competing, Justin Allgaier, he has a legitimate chance to win the race. Allgaier, who hails from Riverside, Illinois, is driving the #40 Traveler's Whiskey car owned by Dale Earnhardt Jr., a two-time Daytona 500 winner. Allgaier's car is expected to be a serious contender at the restrictor plate track.

Why it matters

The Daytona 500 is one of the biggest races in NASCAR, and having an Illinois driver with a real shot at winning would be exciting for racing fans in the state. Allgaier's success would also boost the profile of JR Motorsports, the team co-owned by Dale Earnhardt Jr.

The details

Justin Allgaier qualified for the Daytona 500 and performed well in the qualifying duels on Thursday night. In an interview, Allgaier expressed confidence that his car has the speed to win the race. However, the weather could be a factor, as NASCAR has moved the start time up to 12:30pm central in hopes of completing the race before expected storms arrive in the afternoon.

  • The Daytona 500 is taking place today, February 15, 2026.
  • NASCAR has moved the start time up to 12:30pm central time to try and complete the race before storms arrive.

The players

Justin Allgaier

A driver from Riverside, Illinois who is the 2024 Xfinity Series champion and is competing in the Daytona 500 in the #40 Traveler's Whiskey car.

Dale Earnhardt Jr.

The co-owner of JR Motorsports, Allgaier's race team, and a two-time Daytona 500 winner himself.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We have a car that can win the race, too.”

— Justin Allgaier (979kickfm.com)

What’s next

If Allgaier can avoid getting caught up in any wrecks during the race, he has a real chance to win the Daytona 500 and hoist the trophy.

The takeaway

Having an Illinois driver like Justin Allgaier with a legitimate shot at winning the prestigious Daytona 500 is an exciting prospect for racing fans in the state. Allgaier's success would also boost the profile of his team, JR Motorsports, co-owned by NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt Jr.