Daytona 500 2026: Drivers Eyeing History and Records

As the Daytona 500 approaches, there are several drivers aiming to make history and break long-standing records. Apart from the notable drivers, names like Kyle Busch, Brad Keselowski, Austin Cindric, Austin Dillon, and Michael McDowell are also in the mix for potential wins. The race has seen an increase in open entries, adding more competition to the field, with up to eight potential open entries this year, including notable drivers like Jimmie Johnson and Justin Allgaier.

Connor Zilisch, after an impressive year in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, is gearing up for his full-time NASCAR Cup Series debut with Trackhouse Racing in 2026. The young driver has shown promise across different racing styles, with a notable win at Daytona last season. If Zilisch can secure a victory at the Daytona 500, he could become the youngest driver to win the race, surpassing Trevor Bayne's record.

Jimmie Johnson, a two-time Daytona 500 winner, continues to make sporadic starts in the race as an Open Exemption Provisional driver. With a strong performance last season, Johnson aims to become the first OEP driver to win a NASCAR race and the oldest driver to win the Daytona 500. His former teammate William Byron, a back-to-back winner of the race, is also eyeing a third victory, joining the elite group of three-time winners.

Denny Hamlin, one of four drivers to win the Daytona 500 three times, has the opportunity to make history by clinching a fourth win, a feat achieved by only two other drivers in NASCAR history. With the race for Daytona 500 glory heating up, drivers like Byron, Johnson, and Hamlin are poised to add their names to the prestigious list of multiple winners. Stay tuned for more updates and join the conversation on Discord or X. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube for the latest news and insights.