Here are five drivers to watch in the 68th Daytona 500. The 200-lap affair on the legendary 2.5-mile oval is scheduled for Sunday at 1:30 p.m. on Fox.
William Byron
After winning back-to-back Daytona 500 2024 And 2025the 28-year-old is aiming for an unprecedented third consecutive victory. Bryon won the 2020 Coke Zero Sugar 400but his recent success in the 500 mile follows six years of struggle in the Great American Race. A 21st place as pole sitter in 2019 was his best result until his victory in 24. Driving a backup car after crashing in the Duels intensifies Byron’s challenge to three laps.
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Joey Logano
The 35-year-old had the opportunity to add to his 2015 victory. A finalist showing to runner-up behind Ricky Stenhouse Jr. in 2023 is part of five top-six finishes since his sole victory. After winning the Duels, the three-time Cup Series champion could be the driver to beat due to his experience, aggressive style and drafting ability.
Ryan Blaney
With six top-eight finishes in 11 appearances, Blaney regularly finds himself in the mix. Close calls include a photo finish runner-up behind Denny Hamlin in 2020 and a fourth place in 2022, where Blaney was there on the final lap. 2023 Cup Series champion, Blaney won the Summer race 2021, another sign of the 32-year-old’s comfort level at Daytona International Speedway.
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Kyle Busch
Busch captured his first pole as he seeks a coveted Daytona 500 victory on his 21st attempt. A second place in 2019 is an exception. Busch’s previous 20 starts resulted in an average of 20.2, as well as six crashes and two failed engines. Now 40 years old, Busch is arguably the most talented driver in the Cup Series since he was a 19-year-old rookie in 2005. A record of 63 victories falls short of the one that matters most.
Chase Elliott
The Cup Series’ most popular driver for the past eight years, the 30-year-old would be a famous winner among the sold-out crowd. A finalist in 2021 has Michael McDowell This is the only time Elliott has finished in the top 10 in 10 tries. Three accidents ended his day. But a victory in the Duels could indicate that Elliott is ready to compete on Sunday.
Edgar Thompson can be contacted at [email protected].
