Daytona 500: Check All About 2024 Season Race

With the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season just around the corner, teams are gearing up for the much-anticipated Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway. In a month, 40 drivers will don their suits and embark on the challenge of completing all 200 laps around the 2.5-mile superspeedway.

The stakes are high, as the victor of the Daytona 500 will not only claim prestigious honours but also secure a potential spot in the highly coveted Cup playoffs. As the excitement builds, fans and participants alike eagerly await the thrilling competition that marks the beginning of the new racing season.

Daytona 500 Time and Date

Mark your calendars for the highly anticipated Daytona 500, set to unfold on Sunday, Feb. 18, at 2:30 p.m. Eastern Time. Fox, the official broadcaster, will bring the action to viewers with a stellar team in the booth featuring Mike Joy, Clint Bowyer, and Kevin Harvick. Prepare for an exhilarating race day experience as these seasoned professionals provide comprehensive coverage of the iconic event.

Daytona 500 Qualification

Distinguishing itself from other Cup races, the Daytona 500 unfolds with a unique format spanning multiple days of on-track action to establish the starting lineup. The process kicks off on Wednesday, Feb. 14, with single-car qualifying, where the order will be determined through a random draw conducted by NASCAR.

During this qualifying session, one driver will claim the pole position, securing a coveted spot on the front row. Additionally, one non-chartered car from each qualifying group will earn a position in the Daytona 500 based on their qualifying speed.

The qualifying drama continues on Thursday, Feb. 15, with the Bluegreen Vacation Duel races. The field will be divided into two groups for these 60-lap races, each crucial in determining the remainder of the Daytona 500 starting lineup. In each Duel race, one non-chartered car will secure its place in the Daytona 500, adding an extra layer of competition and excitement to the overall event.

Daytona 500 Pasts Winners

The upcoming Daytona 500 on February 18 promises the presence of several accomplished drivers who have previously secured victory in the iconic race. The majority of these winners have secured guaranteed spots in the lineup thanks to charters. However, one driver will face the challenge of racing his way into this coveted crown jewel event.

Among the notable returnees is Ricky Stenhouse Jr., who clinched his first Daytona 500 win in the previous season. Stenhouse Jr. demonstrated skill and resilience as he fended off the determined challenge from Joey Logano, the 2015 Daytona 500 champion, during an overtime finish. The anticipation builds as these seasoned drivers gear up to compete once again in the prestigious Daytona 500, vying for triumph on the renowned racetrack.

Returning to the lineup with aspirations of securing another season-opening triumph are Austin Dillon, who claimed victory in 2018, Michael McDowell, triumphant in 2021, and Austin Cindric, the 2022 Daytona 500 winner. These accomplished drivers, each having celebrated a memorable Daytona 500 win in recent years, will once again vie for success in this prestigious race, aiming to add another impressive victory to their racing resumes. As they rejoin the competition, anticipation builds for the upcoming Daytona 500, where these seasoned champions will showcase their skill and determination on the iconic track.

Daytona 500 Tickets

Enthusiastic fans can now secure their tickets for the highly anticipated 66th running of the Daytona 500 at the renowned Daytona International Speedway, as announced by the track on Friday. Marking the opening event of NASCAR's 2024 season, this spectacular race is scheduled for February 18, serving as the grand finale of Speedweeks presented by AdventHealth.

For those seeking an elevated experience, limited hospitality options are still available. Among them are coveted spots in 31 Degrees, an exclusive area introduced during the 2023 Daytona 500. Positioned just a stone's throw away from the 31-degree banking of Turn 1, this premium section provides unparalleled sightlines of pit-out, the iconic front trioval, and offers a deluxe setting with a premium bar, delectable cuisine, and a commemorative souvenir gift. Secure your spot for an unforgettable experience at this pinnacle event in the NASCAR calendar.