The sports landscape experiences a brief lull this weekend as fans eagerly await the start of the NASCAR season. Though the conclusion of the Australian Open and exciting college basketball matchups have captivated audiences, the primary absence of football—aside from the Pro Bowl Games—has left the weekend feeling unusually quiet.
However, excitement is brewing on the horizon with the Daytona 500 fast approaching. Action at the Daytona International Speedway commenced with the Rolex 24 endurance race, but the highly anticipated NASCAR season opener, the Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium, underwent postponement due to severe winter weather affecting the South.
The emphasis now shifts to the upcoming Duels at Daytona, a crucial precursor leading up to the main attraction. In addition to the Duels, fans can look forward to the Craftsman Truck Series competition as well as the new O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, previously known as the Xfinity Series. All eyes will be on reigning champion William Byron, who aims to make history by securing a third consecutive win in the Daytona 500.
Scheduled for Sunday, February 15, the 2026 Daytona 500 will feature coverage beginning at 2:30 p.m. ET. The green flag is expected to wave closer to 3 p.m. from the iconic Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida. Fox will carry the live broadcast, with streaming options available through Fubo, which offers a free trial for new subscribers.
As fans prepare for this exhilarating week in NASCAR, the following schedule highlights upcoming events, all times given in Eastern:
– **Wednesday, Feb. 11**: Daytona 500 qualifying at 8:15 p.m. on FS1
– **Thursday, Feb. 12**: America 250 Florida Duel at Daytona at 7 and 8:45 p.m. on FS1
– **Friday, Feb. 13**: Craftsman Truck Series qualifying at 3 p.m. on FS1; Fresh from Florida 250 (Truck Series) at 7:30 p.m. on FS1
– **Saturday, Feb. 14**: O’Reilly Auto Parts Series qualifying at 10 a.m. on CW; Daytona ARCA 200 (ARCA Menards Series) at Noon on Fox; United Rentals 300 (O’Reilly Auto Parts Series) at 5 p.m. on CW
– **Sunday, Feb. 15**: Daytona 500 at 2:30 p.m. on Fox
As the anticipation builds, fans are reminded that while weather may pose challenges, the spirit of competition will shine through at Daytona. The return of NASCAR signifies not just the start of racing but a renewed sense of excitement for fans and participants alike, setting the stage for an exhilarating season ahead.