Daytona Beach, FL – The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season officially kicks off this Sunday, , with the 68th running of the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway. However, due to the threat of inclement weather, the start time for “The Great American Race” has been moved up to on FOX, with the green flag now anticipated around .
The Daytona 500, often described as the Super Bowl of NASCAR, holds a unique place in American motorsports. It’s not just the season opener; it’s the event with the sport’s largest purse, biggest television audience and most celebrated trophy – the Harley J. Earl. While a victory at Daytona is highly coveted, it doesn’t carry the same championship weight as football’s biggest game. The unpredictable nature of the 2.5-mile track, with its 31 degrees of banking, means anyone in the field has a chance to win, or to quickly fall out of contention.
This year’s race carries added significance as it marks the 25th anniversary of the tragic death of Dale Earnhardt Sr. On the final lap in 2001. The sport’s response to that event spurred a significant era of safety improvements, including the widespread adoption of the HANS device and SAFER barriers, and a renewed focus on prioritizing safety in all aspects of racing.
William Byron enters the 2026 Daytona 500 looking to achieve a historic feat: becoming the first driver to win the race three consecutive times. He secured victory in both 2025 and 2024, establishing himself as a dominant force at Daytona. He’s one of only two active drivers with multiple Daytona 500 wins, alongside Denny Hamlin, who has three victories to his name.
The race will be broadcast live on FOX and can be streamed on Fubo. Fans can also listen to live radio coverage on SiriusXM channel 90. For those looking to attend in person, tickets are available on StubHub.
Daytona International Speedway is known for rewarding drafting and punishing even minor mistakes, leading to chaotic and unpredictable races. This year’s event is expected to be no different. The track’s design encourages close racing and frequent lead changes, making it a thrilling spectacle for fans.
Richard Petty remains the all-time leader in Daytona 500 wins with seven, while Cale Yarborough has four. Hamlin, with three wins, has a chance to tie Yarborough for second place. Other drivers to watch include Ryan Blaney, seeking his first Daytona 500 victory, and Joey Logano, who last won the race in 2015.
Adding to the pre-race festivities, singer Miranda Lambert will perform, and actor Kurt Russell will serve as the grand marshal, leading the field to the green flag. The event promises a blend of high-octane racing and star-studded entertainment.
The Daytona 500 is considered the most prestigious race in NASCAR, opening the season every February since 1982. The 200 laps around the 2.5-mile track will test the skill and endurance of the drivers as they battle for a place in NASCAR history. The unpredictable nature of the race ensures that anything can happen, making it a must-watch event for racing fans.
With the start time adjusted due to potential weather concerns, fans are encouraged to tune in early to ensure they don’t miss any of the action. The 2026 Daytona 500 promises to be a thrilling start to the NASCAR Cup Series season, filled with drama, excitement, and the potential for history to be made.
