The ARCA Menards Series 2026 season will kick off in dramatic fashion as more than 70 drivers gather for the annual pre-season practice on January 9 and 10 at Daytona International Speedway. This high-profile launch sets the stage for the 63rd Daytona ARCA 200, marking the official start of a new chapter in American stock car racing.
Star-Studded Roster for Daytona’s Opening Practice
The initial entry list for the two-day shakedown ahead of the ARCA Menards Series 2026 season opener is stacked with talent and emerging stars. Leading the pre-season championship discussion are Isabella Robusto and Thomas Annunziata, both slated for full-season runs with Nitro Motorsports. Under the leadership of Nick Tucker, Nitro’s roster includes 2024 Daytona winner Gus Dean, Talladega victor Jake Finch, and ARCA Menards Series West standout Jake Bollman. Additionally, young drivers Jade Avedisian and Gavan Boschele will be participating with Nitro, gaining track experience in Daytona’s challenging environment.
Pinnacle Racing Group Brings Depth to Daytona
Despite not defending their championship in the ARCA Menards Series this year, Pinnacle Racing Group—fresh off a title run with Brenden “Butterbean” Queen in 2025—is entering Daytona with a lineup rich in potential. Their Chevrolet entries will feature Jack Wood, Landon S. Huffman (son of team manager Shane Huffman), Carson Brown, and Taylor Reimer. Carson Brown, at just 17 years old, is preparing to compete for the ARCA Menards Series East crown this season, underscoring the team’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent.
New and Returning Faces Add Excitement
KLAS Motorsports will make its Daytona debut with a two-car effort, powered by the experience of Andy Jankowiak, a crowd favorite aiming for his first ARCA Menards Series win, and supported by Glen Reen. In a unique crossover between digital stardom and high-octane racing, YouTuber Garrett Mitchell—widely recognized as Cletus McFarland—will return for his second Daytona attempt, partnering with Rette Jones Racing in a Ford.
Veterans and Notable Entrants Boost the Field
The field is bolstered by established names and prior Daytona success stories. Willie Mullins, who narrowly missed victory and secured the pole in 2024, is set to return, as is Sean Corr, a five-time top-five Daytona finisher and the 2012 pole winner. Tim Richmond, after a solid fifth-place finish at Daytona in 2024, will compete alongside young prospects such as Max Reaves and Gio Ruggiero, representing Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota. The defending ARCA Menards East champion, Isaac Kitzmiller, also joins a crowded roster of talent for the 2026 season opener.
High Performance Teams Expand Opportunities
Andy Hillenburg, a two-time ARCA Menards Series Daytona winner, will lead Fast Track High Performance Racing’s efforts with entries for Presley Sorah, Ed Pompa, Austin Hill from Ohio, and Takuma Koga. Six more drivers—Hudson Bulger, Albert Francis, Robbie Kennealy, Kody King, Craig Lutz, and Brad May—will gain valuable track time as part of the ARCA Menards Series Road to Daytona initiative, all in vehicles prepared under Hillenburg’s guidance.
Comprehensive Coverage and Season Launch Timeline
The energy and anticipation for the ARCA Menards Series 2026 season are set to peak with the official start on Thursday, February 12, when practice rounds begin at Daytona International Speedway. Pole qualifying follows on Friday, February 13, leading to the iconic Daytona ARCA 200 at noon on Saturday, February 14. Race fans across the nation can catch the action live on FOX, with additional radio coverage through the MRN Radio Network and real-time timing provided on ARCARacing.com.
With a field blending past champions, rising stars, and newcomers, the ARCA Menards Series 2026 season opener at Daytona promises high-stakes competition and continued excitement for motorsports fans. This traditional event not only spotlights the skills of drivers like Isabella Robusto, Thomas Annunziata, and Cletus McFarland, but also sets the tone for a season shaping up to be one of the most competitive in the history of the series.
