During a 50-minute NASCAR Cup Series practice on Wednesday, February 11, at Daytona International Speedway, Austin Cindric emerged as the fastest driver. Behind the wheel of the No. 2 Team Penske Ford, Cindric posted a lap speed of 187.402 mph in 48.02 seconds. As the defending 2022 Daytona 500 Champion, his performance set a strong tone for the event. The session mainly featured individual runs without drafting, with 43 of the 45 entries participating on the track.
Top Competitors and Their Lap Times
Following Cindric in the speed rankings were Ross Chastain, Corey LaJoie, Bubba Wallace, and Daniel Suarez. Corey LaJoie’s position is particularly critical as he is among the drivers who must qualify on speed to enter The Great American Race. Despite an attempt to avoid drafting, some drivers, including Chastain in his No. 1 Chevrolet for Trackhouse Racing, inadvertently linked up in small drafting groups during their laps. Chastain’s fastest lap measured at 186.931 mph, or 48.146 seconds.
Practice Session Participation and Notable Absences
Most drivers took part in the practice, except Michael McDowell of Spire Motorsports in the No. 71 Chevrolet and Todd Gilliland of Front Row Motorsports in the No. 34 Ford, both of whom remained in the garage throughout the session. Cindric completed only 13 laps on the 2.5-mile trioval during this time.
Challenges Facing Open-Entry Drivers
Drivers competing as open entries, such as Corey LaJoie, face intense pressure as they must secure their spot through qualifying time or race performance. The practice highlighted the difficulty these teams experience in gaining track time and positioning themselves to make the race.
What to Expect as the Daytona 500 Approaches
This early practice showcases Austin Cindric’s preparedness to defend his Daytona 500 title and the competitiveness of drivers like Ross Chastain and Bubba Wallace. With two opportunities for open cars to earn a place in the field, the upcoming qualifying sessions will be crucial. The performances here offer a cautious but hopeful glimpse into which drivers are positioned well for success at Daytona International Speedway.
