Expert prediction
Daytona 500 Picks, Odds & Preview (Feb 15)
Pick rationale
Analysis & key factors
One of the world’s most famous races kicks off the NASCAR Cup Series schedule in mid-February, as the Daytona 500 will be staged at Daytona International Speedway. Find the odds and our picks for the illustrious event here.
Daytona 500: How to Watch
- When: Sunday, February 15, 2026 at 2:30 PM ET
- Where: Daytona International Speedway, Florida
- How to Watch: FOX
Daytona 500 Odds
| Driver | Odds |
|---|---|
| Ryan Blaney | +900 |
| Joey Logano | +1000 |
| Austin Cindric | +1000 |
| William Byron | +1100 |
| Chase Elliott | +1400 |
| Kyle Larson | +1600 |
| Brad Keselowski | +1600 |
| Other Selections | +1800 & Bigger |
Daytona 500 Recent Winners
| Year | Winning Driver |
|---|---|
| 2025 | William Byron |
| 2024 | William Byron |
| 2023 | Ricky Stenhouse Jr |
| 2022 | Austin Cindric |
| 2021 | Michael McDowell |
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Event Preview
The sensational action on the NASCAR Cup Series schedule for 2026 kicks off on February 15, as the world-famous Daytona 500 is staged in Florida. Drivers will complete a total of 500 miles, with 200 laps being completed. This race has been the season-opener since 1982.
Ryan Blaney will be a popular selection among bettors, as he bids to win the illustrious race for the first time. Blaney has achieved two previous top-five finishes, with the most recent of those coming in 2022. Meanwhile, he has finished as the runner-up on two occasions since 2017.
William Byron could be an interesting value selection based on the odds available and the drivers’ previous course experience. The 28-year-old has won the last two editions of the Daytona 500, and history could beckon in the middle of February.
Kyle Larson will be a prominent selection, but the reigning Cup Series champion’s record in the race is far from ideal. Popular driver Chase Elliott will be a value play for many. Elliott has finished in the top 15 in each of the last two editions, and has claimed two top-ten finishes since 2021.
Daytona 500 Picks
It may be worth overlooking many of the drivers at the top of the betting based on recent trends. Therefore, Ryan Preece could make some appeal. The driver has finished on his six starts in the Daytona 500, and has claimed two top eight finishes. In his second season with RFK Racing, he could upset the odds in Florida.
Free Pick:
Nascar
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