Daytona 500 2026: Everything You Need to Know for the Great American Race

As the excitement builds, Daytona 500 day has finally arrived! This premier race kicks off the NASCAR season and is a highlight for motorsport enthusiasts worldwide. With the potential for rain looming, organizers have adjusted the schedule, moving the start time to 2:13 p.m. ET on February 15, 2026, to ensure the full 500-mile race can be completed.

Key Details About the Daytona 500

• Date: February 15, 2026
• Start Time: 2:13 p.m. ET
• Location: Daytona International Speedway, Daytona, Florida
• Broadcast Channel: FOX
• Streaming Options: Available on DIRECTV with a five-day free trial.

Weather Concerns

With a 50% chance of rain in the afternoon, escalating into the evening, the early start is a strategic move to optimize the race conditions and avoid any interruptions.

Noteworthy Competitors

Pole Position

Kyle Busch, driving the No. 8 car for Richard Childress Racing, has captured pole position for the first time in his 20 attempts at Daytona. A victory today would mark Busch’s first-ever win at the Daytona 500, further enhancing his impressive career as a two-time Cup Series champion.

Defending Champion

William Byron, the winner of last year’s race, aims to make history today. If he secures a third consecutive win, he will be the first driver to achieve this feat in Daytona 500 history.

Special Guests

Adding to the event’s excitement, comedian Nate Bargatze will serve as the grand marshal, while actor Kurt Russell, a former champion racer, will take on the role of honorary pace car driver.

Structure of the Race

The Daytona 500 consists of 200 laps divided into three distinct stages:

• Stage 1: 65 laps
• Stage 2: 65 laps
• Final Stage: 70 laps

How to Watch the Daytona 500

Free Streaming Options

If you’re looking to catch the action but don’t have cable, check out these streaming services:

• DIRECTV: Offers a five-day free trial and various package options that include FOX.
• Sling TV: A budget-friendly option starting at $19.99/month, featuring the Select plan that includes FOX.

Additional Viewing Information

• Coverage Start Time: Coverage begins at 1:30 p.m. ET on FOX.
• Watch Online: Visit DIRECTV or Sling TV for more details.

2026 Daytona 500 Starting Lineup

Here’s a look at the top contenders in the starting lineup:

1. Kyle Busch – No. 8 Richard Childress Racing
2. Chase Briscoe – No. 19 Joe Gibbs Racing
3. Joey Logano – No. 22 Team Penske
4. Chase Elliott – No. 9 Hendrick Motorsports
5. Ryan Blaney – No. 12 Team Penske
6. Carson Hocevar – No. 77 Spire Motorsports
7. Austin Dillon – No. 3 Richard Childress Racing
8. Kyle Larson – No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports
9. Brad Keselowski – No. 6 RFK Racing
10. Michael McDowell – No. 71 Spire Motorsports
11. John Hunter Nemechek – No. 42 Legacy Motor Club
12. Christopher Bell – No. 20 Joe Gibbs Racing
13. Shane van Gisbergen – No. 97 Trackhouse Racing
14. Josh Berry – No. 21 Wood Brothers Racing
15. Daniel Suarez – No. 7 Spire Motorsports
16. Ricky Stenhouse Jr. – No. 47 Hyak Motorsports
17. Casey Mears – No. 66 Garage 66
18. Todd Gilliland – No. 34 Front Row Motorsports
19. Ryan Preece – No. 60 RFK Racing
20. Ty Gibbs – No. 54 Joe Gibbs Racing
21. Alex Bowman – No. 48 Hendrick Motorsports
22. Denny Hamlin – No. 11 Joe Gibbs Racing
23. Cole Custer – No. 41 Haas Factory Team
24. Erik Jones – No. 43 Legacy Motor Club
25. Noah Gragson – No. 4 Front Row Motorsports
26. Tyler Reddick – No. 45 23XI Racing
27. Bubba Wallace – No. 23 23XI Racing
28. Riley Herbst – No. 35 23XI Racing
29. Corey Heim – No. 67 23XI Racing
30. Zane Smith – No. 38 Front Row Motorsports
31. Jimmie Johnson – No. 84 Legacy Motor Club
32. Connor Zilisch – No. 88 Trackhouse Racing
33. Cody Ware – No. 51 Rick Ware Racing
34. Ty Dillon – No. 10 Kaulig Racing
35. AJ Allmendinger – No. 16 Kaulig Racing
36. Austin Cindric – No. 2 Team Penske
37. Ross Chastain – No. 1 Trackhouse Racing
38. BJ McLeod – No. 78 Live Fast Motorsports (disqualified due to inspection failure)
39. William Byron – No. 24 Hendrick Motorsports
40. Justin Allgaier – No. 40 JR Motorsports
41. Chris Buescher – No. 17 RFK Racing

Conclusion

As the 2026 Daytona 500 unfolds, fans are eager to witness the incredible competition and history in the making. Be sure to tune in early for all the festivities and enjoy this remarkable event that symbolizes the start of a thrilling NASCAR season! For more updates, follow the latest from NASCAR’s official site.