Daytona 500 Kicks Off NASCAR Season on February 15, 2026

The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series is set to commence with the 68th running of the Daytona 500 on Sunday, February 15, 2026. The start time for this much-anticipated event has been adjusted to 13:30 ET and will be broadcast live on FOX, MRN Radio, and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. This year, the race is expected to draw significant attention, although forecasts indicate the possibility of scattered showers and thunderstorms that could disrupt the schedule at Daytona International Speedway.

The Daytona 500 consists of 200 laps around a 2.5-mile track, where drivers compete for the prestigious Harley J. Earl Trophy. This race has historically marked the beginning of the NASCAR season every February since 1982, establishing itself as a cornerstone event in the motorsport calendar. According to the official NASCAR website, it is regarded as “the most prestigious and important race in NASCAR.”

Last year’s champion, William Byron, aims to defend his title and make history by becoming the first driver to win the Daytona 500 three times consecutively. Byron has already secured two victories in the event, joining Denny Hamlin, who has three wins, as one of only two active drivers with multiple Daytona 500 victories. If Byron succeeds, he will surpass notable figures such as Richard Petty, who leads the all-time list with seven wins, and Cale Yarborough, who has four.

As the race approaches, a number of drivers are being touted as potential contenders. Alongside Byron, Ryan Blaney seeks his first Daytona 500 victory, while Joey Logano, a past winner, is eager to secure a second win after his last triumph in 2015. Notably, Denny Hamlin has an opportunity to tie for second place in the all-time rankings should he claim victory this year.

In addition to the race, Miranda Lambert will perform prior to the event, adding a festive atmosphere to the proceedings. Actor Kurt Russell is set to lead the field to the green flag, enhancing the celebrity presence at this iconic race.

This year’s Daytona 500 also carries a poignant significance as it marks the 25th anniversary of the passing of NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt Sr., who tragically lost his life during the race in 2001. Earnhardt, who secured one Daytona 500 win, remains the all-time leader at Daytona International Speedway with a remarkable 34 victories.

With the excitement building, race fans around the world will be eagerly watching to see who emerges victorious in this storied competition. The Daytona 500 promises to deliver thrilling action and memorable moments, setting the stage for the NASCAR season ahead.

The race is scheduled as follows:
– **Date**: Sunday, February 15, 2026
– **Time**: 13:30 ET
– **Location**: Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, Florida
– **Television**: FOX
– **Radio**: MRN Radio, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio

The following drivers are confirmed to participate in the event:
1. Kyle Busch
2. Chase Briscoe
3. Joey Logano
4. Chase Elliott
5. Ryan Blaney
6. Carson Hocevar
7. Austin Dillon
8. Kyle Larson
9. Brad Keselowski
10. Michael McDowell
11. John Hunter Nemechek
12. Christopher Bell
13. Shane van Gisbergen
14. Josh Berry
15. Daniel Suarez
16. Ricky Stenhouse Jr.
17. Casey Mears
18. Todd Gilliland
19. Ryan Preece
20. Ty Gibbs
21. Alex Bowman
22. Denny Hamlin
23. Cole Custer
24. Erik Jones
25. Noah Gragson
26. Tyler Reddick
27. Bubba Wallace
28. Riley Herbst
29. Corey Heim
30. Zane Smith
31. Jimmie Johnson
32. Connor Zilisch
33. Cody Ware
34. Ty Dillon
35. AJ Allmendinger
36. Austin Cindric
37. Ross Chastain
38. Anthony Alfredo
39. William Byron
40. Justin Allgaier
41. Chris Buescher

As the countdown to the Daytona 500 continues, anticipation grows not only for the race itself but for the stories that will unfold throughout this thrilling season.