Daytona Beach, Florida – The anticipation for the 2026 Daytona 500 is reaching a fever pitch as qualifying kicked off last night with the front row secured by Kyle Busch and Chase Briscoe. The real excitement, however, is set for tonight’s event: the Duel at Daytona, consisting of two thrilling 60-lap, 150-mile races. These races will finalize the starting grid for the iconic Great American Race.
The qualifying session on February 11 merely established the first two positions and allowed two of the four unchartered teams to earn their spots in Sunday’s race. The rest of the field will be determined during the Daytona Duels, where the first race will determine odd-numbered starting positions and the second race will complete the even-numbered slots.
Tonight’s racing spectacle kicks off at 7 p.m. ET at the legendary Daytona International Speedway. Fans can look forward to the first duel starting at that time, followed by the second duel at approximately 8:45 p.m. ET. For those unable to attend, the event will be broadcast nationally on FS1, with streaming available on Fubo, which offers a free trial for new subscribers.
Additionally, the day’s events will feature practice runs for the ARCA race on Saturday and the NASCAR Truck Series race on Friday. After all the racing, fans will have an opportunity to view a new documentary commemorating the 25th anniversary of Dale Earnhardt’s passing.
As the drivers gear up for their chance to compete in one of motorsport’s most prestigious events, excitement is palpable amongst fans and participants alike. The Daytona 500 is scheduled for February 15, with live coverage starting at 2:30 p.m. ET on Fox. This year, NASCAR legends Mike Joy, Clint Bowyer, and Kevin Harvick will provide commentary for what promises to be a thrilling race.