The ARCA Menards Series Daytona practice drew remarkable attention as Daytona International Speedway filled with energy over the weekend. With 82 drivers and 49 racecars participating in the two-day Pre-Race Practice, this event became the largest ARCA Menards Series Daytona practice gathering since 2012, demonstrating the rising anticipation for the upcoming season opener.
Highlights from a Competitive Two-Day Practice
The weekend saw an exciting mix of established racers and emerging talents. Gus Dean, the 2024 Daytona winner, rejoined the competition for the first time since his previous triumph and delivered the fastest lap of the weekend. In his No. 25 Nitro Motorsports Toyota, Dean recorded a lap of 48.744 seconds, reaching a top speed of 184.638 mph. This result capped off an extraordinary Friday for Nitro Motorsports, as the team secured the top six places during a late drafting run, with Dean leading the group of Gavan Boschele, Jake Finch, Thomas Annunziata, Isabella Robusto, and Jake Bollman. Social media personality Garrett Mitchell, also known as Cleetus McFarland, made his mark by completing the draft and finishing seventh overall on the speed charts.
Saturday’s practice session saw Austin Green take center stage, topping the leaderboard in the No. 82 Pinnacle Racing Group Chevrolet with a best lap of 49.202 seconds, clocking in at 182.919 mph. Green’s impressive showing has bolstered expectations around his candidacy for the 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series rookie title. Cole Butcher, the reigning ASA STARS National Tour champion, finished just behind Green. Butcher’s performance was notable for taking place in a Rette Jones Racing Ford originally built by Chip Ganassi Racing in 1999 — a car with legendary Daytona 500 history, having led the field in 2002 with Sterling Marlin.
Prominent Female Driver Participation Adds Depth
Female representation was a key highlight during the practice sessions. Eight women took to the track over the two days, with Isabella Robusto leading the group in fifth position overall. Amber Balcaen earned 13th, while Taylor Reimer finished 16th. Notably, Alli Owens made her return to Daytona after a 16-year hiatus, posting a 19th-place result. First-time participant Jade Avedisian completed her debut with a 25th-place finish. Logan Misuraca, Quinn Davis, and Becca Monopoli focused on maximizing their single-car runs, contributing to an inclusive and competitive field.
Emerging Talent and Notable Team Performances
The Road to Daytona initiative debuted six drivers at the celebrated raceway, led by reigning ARCA West Rookie of the Year Robbie Kennealy, who was quickest in the group. With guidance from seasoned driver Andy Hillenburg., all six completed approximately 100 miles in solo driving conditions, showing promise for the future of the series.
Joe Gibbs Racing entered the fray with two budding talents during Friday’s activities. Giovanni Ruggiero is slated to compete again in February, targeting the organization’s first ARCA victory at Daytona. Sixteen-year-old Max Reaves, already a five-time 2025 winner, took his initial laps at the speedway with guidance from NASCAR legend Bobby Labonte.
Michael Maples Motorsports fielded four entries, with Ryan Vargas leading the way for the team in 23rd overall and team owner Michael Maples finishing in the 40th spot. Each team’s performance added another layer to the competitiveness and anticipation building for the season ahead.
Few On-Track Incidents Mark Otherwise Smooth Sessions
Despite the packed field and high speeds, only two notable incidents occurred, both on Friday. Amber Balcaen experienced a tire failure resulting in a spin and forced her to switch to a backup vehicle. Shortly after, Bob Martin spun his Toyota, though neither driver sustained injuries in the process.
Looking Forward to the Daytona ARCA 200
With the record-breaking participation and impressive performances witnessed at the ARCA Menards Series Daytona practice, the spotlight now turns to the 63rd Annual Daytona ARCA 200 on Saturday, February 14. The schedule includes practice runs beginning Thursday, February 12, and qualifying sessions on Friday, setting the stage for the main event which will be broadcast live on FOX at noon Eastern, as well as on MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.
The growing interest in the series, increased female participation, and the emergence of new drivers all point toward an exciting ARCA Menards Series season. As the drivers and teams prepare for the season opener, Daytona International Speedway continues to serve as the launching pad for high-level competition and memorable racing moments.
