The upcoming 68th Daytona 500 has attracted 45 entries, with NASCAR Cup Series drivers sharing the spotlight alongside competitors in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (NCTS), NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series (NOAPS, formerly Xfinity), and the ARCA Menards Series, all kicking off their seasons at Daytona this week. Among the Daytona 500 entrants are eight previous winners and seven NASCAR Cup champions. Although there were eight open entries vying for the final four spots on the starting grid, Jimmie Johnson, the ninth open entry, used an open exemption provisional, ensuring that 41 cars will participate in the race.
The 2026 Daytona 500 entry list features top-tier talent competing for the prestigious Harley J. Earl Trophy.
In the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series “United Rentals 300,” 42 drivers and teams will run for 38 places on the grid, with Carson Josevar being the sole Cup Series driver participating in this race. The entry list includes notable names such as Garrett Smithley, Sheldon Creed, Carson Kvapil, Justin Allgaier, William Sawalich, Brandon Jones, and Sam Mayer, among many others.
Meanwhile, the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series “Fresh Florida 250” season opener showcases 36 trucks out of 44 entries. This race marks Tony Stewart’s return, debuting his drive in the Kaulig Ram. The event will also see full-time Cup drivers like Ricky Stenhouse Jr., Michael McDowell, John Hunter Nemechek, and Josevar competing. New provisional spots have been introduced to guarantee at least four Ram vehicles make the grid.
In the ARCA Menards Series “General Tire 200,” the field consists of 50 entries, with 40 confirmed to compete in the season opener.
Fan Take:
This extensive lineup across multiple series at Daytona signals a thrilling start to the NASCAR season, blending seasoned champions with emerging talent. For fans, it promises high-stakes competition and fresh storylines that could shape the future of the sport.
