The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series regular season begins this Sunday with the iconic Daytona 500 at the high banks of Daytona International Speedway in Florida. Taking place at 2:30 p.m. ET, the race will be broadcast on FOX, HBO Max, and covered on MRN Radio and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, marking the season’s first major contest with the focused attention of drivers and fans alike.
Preparations and Race Format Leading to the Daytona 500
Before the main event, drivers will participate in a comprehensive schedule that includes practice sessions and qualifying runs, followed by two 60-lap Duel races that set the starting lineup for the Daytona 500. These events, combined with additional practices, provide vital track time and strategic insight for the teams as they prepare to compete in NASCAR’s crown jewel race.
Details of the 2026 Daytona 500 Entry List
A total of 45 drivers are entered to compete in the Daytona 500. Among them, Justin Allgaier returns to drive the No. 40 car for JR Motorsports, continuing his participation from last season. Corey Heim, the 2025 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series champion, is set to debut in the NASCAR Cup Series this season behind the wheel of the No. 67 Toyota for 23XI Racing, with the Daytona 500 marking his first of 12 scheduled races.
Corey LaJoie, who substituted for Brad Keselowski in the 2026 Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium driving the No. 6 RFK Racing Ford, will attempt to secure a spot in the Daytona 500 as driver of the No. 99 RFK Racing Ford.
William Byron’s Quest for an Unmatched Third Consecutive Victory
William Byron, one of only five drivers in history to win back-to-back Daytona 500 titles, secured wins in 2024 and 2025 and will aim to make NASCAR history by claiming a third consecutive victory. He will compete in the No. 24 Chevrolet for Hendrick Motorsports, seeking to become the first driver to achieve a three-peat in this prestigious event.
Full Entry List and Upcoming Action
The complete list of drivers entered in the flagship race reflects a diverse and competitive field ready to take on the legendary Daytona track. Fans and participants can expect a thrilling lead-up involving qualifying and duel races that will shape the lineup and set the stage for the 68th running of the Great American Race.
