How many open car spots are available for the 2026 Daytona 500?

There are four available spots for open cars in the 2026 Daytona 500.

What are the qualifying events for the 2026 Daytona 500?

The 2026 Daytona 500 qualifying involves single-car qualifying to set the front row and two Duel races to finalize the remaining spots.

Who is competing for the open spots in the 2026 Daytona 500?

Drivers such as Justin Allgaier, Corey Heim, and Corey LaJoie are among the eight competing for the four open spots in the 2026 Daytona 500.

Home / Sports / Daytona 500: 8 Drivers Vie for 4 Open Spots

Daytona 500: 8 Drivers Vie for 4 Open Spots

12 Feb

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Summary

Eight open cars are competing for just four available spots in the 2026 Daytona 500.
Single-car qualifying will set the front row, with Duels deciding final open entries.
Justin Allgaier acknowledges the qualifying pressure but aims for a fast Chevrolet.

Daytona 500: 8 Drivers Vie for 4 Open Spots

The 2026 Daytona 500 is setting the stage for an intense qualifying competition, with eight open-car teams battling for just four remaining spots. The field of 41 will include 36 chartered teams, plus an Open Exemption Provisional awarded to Jimmie Johnson's team, leaving limited opportunities for others. Drivers like Justin Allgaier, Corey Heim, and Corey LaJoie are among those facing this high-stakes challenge.

Speedweeks at Daytona International Speedway will feature single-car qualifying to set the front row, followed by two Duel races. These Duels will finalize the starting lineup, with the two fastest open cars locking in via qualifying, and one spot available in each Duel race. Justin Allgaier, driving for JR Motorsports, expressed the nerve-wracking nature of the competition but remains focused on his team's preparation.