The 68th Annual Daytona 500

The 68th running of the Daytona 500 takes place on Sunday, February 15, 2026. Known as "The Great American Race," it serves as the prestigious season-opener for the NASCAR Cup Series at the Daytona International Speedway. The Milestone: This year is heavy on nostalgia, marking the 50th anniversary of the legendary 1976 Petty-Pearson duel and the 25th anniversary of Dale Earnhardt’s tragic 2001 crash, an event that fundamentally changed safety standards in motorsports. William Byron enters as the favorite, attempting to defend his recent dominance at the track. Country superstar Miranda Lambert is set to headline the pre-race concert.