The start time for the 68th Daytona 500 has been moved forward by one hour to 2:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Sunday, February 15, 2026, due to anticipated inclement weather, ESPN reported.
Ryan Blaney, the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series Champion, is considered a narrow favorite to win the race, according to odds released by The Modern York Times. He is closely followed by Joey Logano in predictions. Blaney, driving the No. 12 Team Penske car, secured his last win at the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race at Phoenix. He has 17 career wins in the Cup Series over 12 years of competition.
Qualifying for the Daytona 500 has already been completed, with single-car runs setting the initial field. The Duels, qualifying races that further refine the starting lineup, have also taken place. The current grid positions are being tracked by NASCAR.com.
Several drivers are being highlighted as potential “dark horses” who could challenge the favorites. The Daytona Beach News-Journal has identified five such drivers who could make a significant impact in the race.
Blaney’s career includes championships in multiple NASCAR series. He was the 2011 PASS South Super Late Model Series Champion and the 2010 CRA Southern Six-Pack Champion, and in 2009, he was named the Eastern Grand Nationals Champion. He also earned Rookie of the Year honors in both the 2009 PASS South Super Late Model Series and the 2013 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series. He was the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Most Popular Driver in 2014.
Chase Elliott, Joey Logano, and Ryan Blaney recently discussed their preparations for the Daytona 500 in a preview published on YouTube, as reported by FOX Sports. The discussion focused on strategies and expectations for the upcoming race.
Ryan Blaney was born on December 31, 1993, in Hartford Township, Trumbull County, Ohio. He is currently 32 years old and stands 5 feet 7 inches tall, weighing 165 pounds.
