The ARCA Menards Series Daytona practice began with a two-day session at Daytona International Speedway on January 9, where Gus Dean set the fastest lap, followed closely by Gavan Boschele. These early results give teams and fans a preview of what to expect ahead of the season-opening race on February 14, 2026, at the same track.
Strong Performances Mark Start of Daytona Practice
During these initial test days, Gus Dean outpaced the competition with a best time of 48.744 seconds, just ahead of Gavan Boschele, who recorded a time of 48.806 seconds. A total of 65 drivers took part in the practice sessions, each aiming to fine-tune their approach for the unique 2.5-mile oval layout at Daytona International Speedway. As Dean led the field, the stage has been set for a closely contested season opener.
Teams Refine Race Setups and Tactics
With limited time before the season’s first race, teams are using these Daytona practice runs to analyze data and make crucial adjustments. Testing allows participants to evaluate their vehicles’ performance and experiment with strategies, giving them an edge when competition officially begins. Additional practice opportunities may emerge as teams adapt to the track’s demands in the lead-up to race day.
Competitive Outlook for 2026 Season Opener
The early lap times from ARCA Menards Series Daytona practice suggest a tight field of contenders for the upcoming season. Observers will watch closely to see how testing speed translates into race success when drivers and teams return to Daytona International Speedway on February 14 for the season’s highly anticipated start. The results from these sessions are expected to influence team strategies and could foreshadow which drivers emerge as frontrunners in 2026.
