Veteran NASCAR driver Casey Mears is preparing to compete at the sport’s most prestigious event, the Daytona 500, in 2026 behind the wheel for Garage 66. As he gears up for the season opener, Mears is just six starts away from reaching the remarkable milestone of 500 career starts in the NASCAR Cup Series, a testament to his enduring presence in racing.
Strengthening Partnership with Garage 66 and Sponsors
Mears’ upcoming appearance marks a return to Garage 66, the team he raced with during the 2025 Cup Series season, reinforcing an already solid collaboration based on experience and consistent performance. His Daytona 500 entry will be supported by co-primary sponsors S.I. Yachts and The Gracie Foundation, with KARR Security Systems joining as a key associate sponsor.
Longevity and Milestone Significance in NASCAR
Among the most experienced drivers active today, Casey Mears’ career is known for resilience, adaptability, and competitive achievements in top-tier NASCAR events. Surpassing 500 starts would place him in an elite group, as only 47 drivers in NASCAR Cup Series history have accomplished this feat, underscoring the significance of his pursuit.
Mears on the Upcoming Daytona 500 and Milestone
“Being back at Daytona is always special, and the Daytona 500 remains one of the greatest challenges in motorsports,”
Mears said.
“To return with Garage 66, after racing with them in 2025, and to be just six starts away from 500 Cup Series races is something I’m incredibly proud of. I’m grateful to S.I. Yachts, The Gracie Foundation, and KARR Security Systems for their support in making this program possible.”
Garage 66’s Optimism Ahead of Daytona 500
Garage 66 owner Carl Long expressed enthusiasm about continuing their partnership with Mears heading into Daytona.
“I am looking forward to going to Daytona with Casey Mears; he’s one of the best restrictor plate racers in the sport,”
Long said.
“We’ll need to get through the Duel 150s on Thursday, but the way Casey performed for us at Daytona and Talladega last year, we’ll be strong. We’ve also secured a strong pit crew and have added veteran crew chief Jason Miller to the team to assist with race strategy. As long as we do our job with the car and execute on pit road, we should be in the Daytona 500 field on Sunday.”
Key Dates and Broadcast Information for Daytona 500 Events
The No. 66 S.I. Yachts/The Gracie Foundation Camaro ZL1 driven by Casey Mears will take to the track for the season’s opening practice session on Wednesday, February 11, at 10 a.m. ET at Daytona International Speedway. Later that day, Daytona 500 qualifying is scheduled for 8:15 p.m. ET.
On Thursday, February 12, the America 250 Florida Duels will occur, with live coverage on FS1 starting at 7 p.m. ET. Racing fans can also listen through the Motor Racing Network (MRN) or SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, channel 90.
The main event, the Daytona 500, takes place on Sunday, February 15. Broadcast will begin live on FOX from 2:30 p.m. ET, with live radio coverage available via MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, channel 90.
Anticipated Impact of Mears’ Milestone Attempt
Casey Mears’ pursuit of 500 NASCAR Cup Series starts at the Daytona 500 emphasizes his enduring dedication and skill in a highly competitive sport. Achieving this milestone would not only highlight his personal longevity but also cement his status among the sport’s historical legends. Fans and the NASCAR community alike will follow his quest closely, as this accomplishment reflects a remarkable career marked by persistence and passion.
