2026 NASCAR Cup Series DAYTONA 500

• 68th running of the Daytona 500 season opener
• Two 60-lap Duel qualifying races setting grid positions third to 40th
• Stage breaks after 65 and 130 laps during the 200-lap race
• Hard Rock Bet Fanzone access lets fans walk the garage fandeck and view teams through garage windows
• 101,500 permanent grandstand seats following DAYTONA Rising renovations

Best Way to Experience It

• 300 level sections 340-362 face pit area and show the entire track
• 100 level seats elevated 10-15 feet above track eliminate viewing obstructions
• Fanzone access includes live entertainment stage and additional food and drink areas

Good to Know

• Outside food and beverages allowed; all fans can leave and re-enter with valid tickets
• Free parking available for most events
• Tram and shuttle services operate between parking lots, entrances, grandstands, and infield
• Mid-February weather typically mild with daytime highs ranging 60°F to 75°F
• All concessions and ticket office operate cashless accepting major credit cards

• Best fit if you value championship prestige — 68th running of NASCAR's season-opening flagship race since 1959, largest purse in series history, "The Great American Race" carries unique significance beyond points standings.
• Best fit if you enjoy historic venues — 2.5-mile Daytona International Speedway features 31-degree banking enabling 200 mph+ speeds through turns, tri-oval configuration creates multiple viewing angles across 180-acre infield with Lake Lloyd.
• Best fit if you like passionate fan atmosphere — 150,000 race day attendance with families camping infield, bring-your-own-food policy encourages tailgating culture, free parking facilitates multi-day Speedweeks festival environment before 200-lap finale.
• Not ideal if you prefer intimate racing events — 150,000 race day attendance with 450,000 across Speedweeks creates packed facility conditions, substantial parking/re-entry wait times, crowded concession areas throughout February racing festival.