NASCAR Driver Tyler Reddick Celebrates Daytona 500 Win With Son Rookie

Reddick's son Rookie, who was diagnosed with a tumor in his chest in 2025, is now recovering well and joined his father in the victory celebration.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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NASCAR driver Tyler Reddick won the 2026 Daytona 500, marking a triumphant return to Victory Lane after a difficult 2025 season both on and off the track. Reddick's young son Rookie, who was diagnosed with a tumor in his chest in late 2025, was present at the celebration, having recovered well from the health scare. The family's joy was palpable as they embraced and soaked in the victory together.

Why it matters

Reddick's Daytona 500 win comes after a challenging year in which his son's health issues overshadowed his NASCAR performance. The victory and family celebration represent a heartwarming comeback story, highlighting the resilience of the Reddick family in the face of adversity.

The details

In late September 2025, Reddick's son Rookie was taken to the hospital after showing signs of heart failure. Doctors discovered a tumor in his chest that was compressing his renal artery and vein, putting strain on his heart. In October, surgeons successfully removed Rookie's right kidney, and he has been recovering well since then. Reddick spoke about how special it was to have his family, including his elder son Beau, with him to celebrate the Daytona 500 victory, noting that Rookie has been doing great and is already showing a fondness for loud, explosive moments just like his father.

  • In late September 2025, Rookie was taken to the hospital after showing signs of heart failure.
  • In October 2025, surgeons successfully removed Rookie's right kidney.
  • Rookie came home around the Martinsville weekend in 2025.
  • Reddick won the 2026 Daytona 500 on February 16, 2026.

The players

Tyler Reddick

A NASCAR driver who competes for 23XI Racing. He won the 2026 Daytona 500 after a difficult 2025 season both on and off the track.

Rookie Reddick

Tyler Reddick's young son, who was diagnosed with a tumor in his chest in late 2025 and has been recovering well since then.

Alexa Reddick

Tyler Reddick's wife, who was holding their son Rookie during the Daytona 500 victory celebration.

Beau Reddick

Tyler Reddick's elder son, who was also present at the Daytona 500 victory celebration.

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What they’re saying

“Yeah, he's here. He did great. He came home around the Martinsville weekend last year.”

— Tyler Reddick, NASCAR Driver (yardbarker.com)

“He's been like a speedster crawling fast. He's seen some of the other kids, some of Briscoe's kids, some of the other little ones running around the playground that probably weigh less than Rookie — he's a big kid for his age — walking, and he wants to already do that, too.”

— Tyler Reddick, NASCAR Driver (yardbarker.com)

“Rookie, he's the total opposite. The crazier and louder things are, the more Rookie loves it. He's wild. Like his dad.”

— Tyler Reddick, NASCAR Driver (yardbarker.com)

What’s next

Reddick and his family will continue to monitor Rookie's health and recovery, with the hope that he can continue to thrive and enjoy the loud, exciting moments that his father loves.

The takeaway

Reddick's Daytona 500 victory and the presence of his family, especially his son Rookie who overcame a serious health scare, serve as an inspiring reminder of the power of resilience and the importance of cherishing precious moments with loved ones, even in the face of adversity.