Wait. If you’re checking the calendar and wondering how you missed the biggest race of the year, let’s clear the air immediately: The 2026 Daytona 500 hasn't actually happened yet. I know, I know. The internet is a weird place and sometimes dates get fuzzy, especially when "Speedweeks" starts dominating the headlines. If you are looking for who took the checkered flag most recently, we have to look back at the absolute madness of the 2025 Daytona 500, where William Byron pulled off something we haven't seen in years.
Honestly, the 2026 race is currently scheduled for Sunday, February 15, 2026. So, unless you’ve got a DeLorean parked in the garage, the "yesterday" winner you’re likely hunting for is the reigning champ who survived one of the most technical and rain-delayed finishes in NASCAR history.
The Man Who Conquered the Chaos: William Byron’s Back-to-Back
Last year’s race was basically a movie. William Byron, driving the iconic No. 24 Chevrolet for Hendrick Motorsports, managed to avoid a massive last-lap wreck that looked like something out of a Michael Bay film. He didn't just win; he became the first driver since Denny Hamlin (2019-2020) to win the Daytona 500 in consecutive years.
It wasn't easy.
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The race was plagued by a massive rain delay that kept fans waiting for over three hours. When the engines finally fired back up, the energy was frantic. Byron wasn't even the leader for most of the final stage. That honor went to guys like Austin Cindric and Ryan Blaney, who seemed to have the field in their pocket. But Daytona doesn't care about your "plan."
What Happened on the Final Lap?
Basically, total carnage. On the backstretch of the final lap, a bump from Cole Custer sent Denny Hamlin sideways. This triggered the "Big One." Cars were flying everywhere. Tyler Reddick managed to snake through the smoke to take second place, and—in a shocker for most fans—Jimmie Johnson brought home a third-place finish for Legacy Motor Club.
Byron just... disappeared. He found a gap on the high side, kept his foot pinned, and crossed the line just 0.113 seconds ahead of Reddick. It was a masterclass in "right place, right time" racing.
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Looking Ahead: The 2026 Daytona 500 Outlook
Since it's early 2026, the garage area is buzzing about the upcoming Feb 15th start. There are some massive shifts this year that are going to change how the "yesterday" winner conversation looks once we actually hit Monday morning in February.
- The Chase is Back: NASCAR is officially bringing back "The Chase" format for 2026. This means the Daytona 500 win carries even more weight for the regular-season points lead, even if it doesn't "automatically" lock a driver into the playoffs like the old "win-and-you're-in" system.
- The Return of "The King" (Kinda): Jimmie Johnson is already confirmed for the 2026 field in the No. 84 Carvana Toyota. After his podium finish last year, people are genuinely wondering if he has one more Harley J. Earl trophy in him.
- The Horsepower Debate: There's a lot of talk about a target horsepower increase (up to 750 hp) for certain tracks this year. While Daytona stays restricted for safety, the way these teams are building engines for the 2026 season is definitely different.
Who are the Favorites for 2026?
If you're looking to place a bet or just want to sound smart at the sports bar, keep an eye on Ryan Blaney and Joey Logano. They are currently tied at the top of the Vegas odds. The Penske Fords are notoriously fast at superspeedways, and Logano is due for some better luck after his throttle body issues ruined his 2025 run.
Then you've got the young guns. Connor Zilisch is the name on everyone’s lips. The 19-year-old phenom is moving into the premier level, and while Daytona is a brutal place for a rookie, he’s shown he can handle high-pressure drafting.
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How to Make Sure You Don't Miss the Real "Yesterday" Winner
The 2026 season is officially kicking off with the Roar Before the Rolex 24 right now (mid-January), which is why you’re probably seeing Daytona in the news. But the 500 itself is the crown jewel.
- Mark February 15, 2026, on your calendar. That’s the Sunday you need to clear.
- Watch the Duels. The American 250 Florida Duels happen on Thursday, Feb 12th. This is where we find out who actually has the speed to win.
- Check the weather. Daytona and rain have a toxic relationship. If the race gets pushed to Monday (again), that "yesterday" winner will be crowned on Feb 16th.
Keep an eye on Spire Motorsports too. They’ve invested a ton of money into the 2026 season, bringing on Daniel Suárez to drive the No. 7 car. It’s a fresh start for him, and Spire is hungry to prove they aren't just a mid-pack team anymore.
Whether it’s Byron going for a historic "three-peat" or a veteran like Kyle Busch finally getting his first 500 win, the 2026 edition is shaping up to be a total reset for the sport.