On February 13, 2026, drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series returned to the track at Daytona International Speedway for the second practice session ahead of the Daytona 500. Following the intense Duel races the previous day, numerous drivers are competing using backup cars due to incidents during the events, preparing for the upcoming race with an eye on improving their positions.
The Daytona 500 practice results indicated Austin Dillon set the fastest lap, clocking in at 46.006 seconds with an average speed of 195.626 mph, signaling a strong performance as teams finalize their strategies.
Backup Cars and Driver Adjustments Following Duel Race Incidents
Several competitors, including William Byron, Ross Chastain, Daniel Suarez, and Chris Buescher, announced the use of backup vehicles during this session, as their primary cars were damaged in the Duels. William Byron’s backup car notably made its way from Charlotte, North Carolina, arriving early in the morning fully prepared for practice. These adjustments underline the intense and sometimes unpredictable nature of the lead-up to the Daytona 500.
Top Performers in Daytona 500 Second Practice
The official practice results from February 13 list Austin Dillon at the top, followed closely by Alex Bowman and Justin Allgaier. Chase Elliott and Ricky Stenhouse Jr. also completed the top five, demonstrating competitive pace early in the weekend. Other notable drivers near the front include Shane van Gisbergen, William Byron, Ross Chastain, and Kyle Larson.
Drivers placing in the top ten posted lap times ranging from 46.006 seconds for Dillon to 46.257 seconds for tenth place Connor Zilisch. The full top ten are:
- Austin Dillon – 46.006
- Alex Bowman – 46.047
- Justin Allgaier – 46.137
- Chase Elliott – 46.149
- Ricky Stenhouse Jr. – 46.160
- Shane van Gisbergen – 46.239
- William Byron – 46.242
- Ross Chastain – 46.249
- Kyle Larson – 46.250
- Connor Zilisch – 46.257
Additional Highlights and Notable Performances
Beyond the top lap times, several other drivers showed consistent speed, including Josh Berry, Ty Dillon, Zane Smith, and Todd Gilliland. The mid-pack remained tightly grouped with Brad Keselowski, Ryan Blaney, and Joey Logano completing the top 17 positions, hinting at a highly competitive race ahead. Meanwhile, veterans such as Jimmie Johnson and Bubba Wallace were further back in the speed charts, navigating the challenges of practice under transitional conditions.
Implications for the Upcoming Daytona 500
This second practice session offers critical insights into car setups and driver readiness in the stressful environment after the Duel races. Austin Dillon’s top time may position him as a contender to watch during the Daytona 500, while the widespread use of backup cars highlights the unpredictable nature of this racing weekend. Drivers and teams will use these results to tune their vehicles and strategies, with anticipation building as the main event approaches.
The outcomes of practice sessions like this often influence final adjustments, making every lap valuable for the drivers, crews, and fans awaiting the iconic Daytona 500 showdown.
