The 68th edition of the Daytona 500 NASCAR Cup Series race is scheduled for Sunday, February 15, 2026, at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona, Florida. The race will begin at 2:30 p.m. ET, and tickets remain available for fans wishing to attend the season-opening event in person. The Daytona 500 is a key moment in the NASCAR calendar, officially kicking off the 2026 Cup Series season.
Where to Purchase Tickets and Current Pricing
Fans looking to secure Daytona 500 tickets can find options on several reputable secondary market platforms, including Vivid Seats, StubHub, SeatGeek, and Viagogo. As of February 5, the most affordable tickets start at $181 on Vivid Seats, closely followed by Viagogo at $190, StubHub at $191, and SeatGeek at $197.
Events Leading up to the Main Race
The Daytona 500 is the highlight of a full Speedweeks schedule. It follows the Cook Out Clash held on February 4 at Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Ahead of the race day, NASCAR will feature a pair of duel races on Thursday, February 12, at 7 p.m. and 8:45 p.m. Friday and Saturday will feature additional competitions, including the Fresh From Florida 250 Craftsman Truck Series race and the United Rentals 300 O’Reilly Auto Parts Series race, respectively. These events build momentum through the week leading to the main event.
Daytona 500 Race Details and Viewing Options
The race will be broadcast live on FOX, with streaming available via FuboTV, DirecTV, and SlingTV, all offering free trials or introductory rates for new users. The Daytona International Speedway serves as the venue, welcoming fans to witness the thrilling contest in person.
Notable Drivers and Previous Season Highlights
William Byron secured victory in the 2025 Daytona 500, finishing ahead of Tyler Reddick, Jimmie Johnson, Chase Briscoe, and John H. Nemechek. Among these competitors, Nemechek achieved the highest placement in the overall championship standings with a fourth-place finish. Meanwhile, Kyle Larson won the NASCAR championship last season despite a 20th place finish at the Daytona 500.
Significance of the Event and What to Expect Next
The Daytona 500 continues to represent one of the most prestigious and eagerly anticipated races in NASCAR, setting the tone for the entire season. With multiple qualifying and support races throughout Speedweeks, fans have ample opportunities to engage with the sport. As the 2026 season unfolds, the performances at Daytona will be closely watched for indications of championship contenders and emerging talent in the NASCAR Cup Series.
