The Daytona 500, which took place on Sunday (February 5), is widely considered NASCAR’s biggest and most notable event. Many fans compare its significance to the Super Bowl for the NFL.
Unlike most sports where the championship final is the largest event, the Daytona 500 kicks off the NASCAR Cup Series season every February at Daytona International Speedway.
Starting the season with its most iconic race makes it feel monumental from the very beginning.
Driver Tyler Reddick Secures Victory
A total of 37 drivers were already locked into the field, including Justin Allgaier, who was competing in equipment owned by Dale Earnhardt Jr. The final positions were decided in the America 250 Florida Duels, the traditional qualifying races held at Daytona International Speedway.
Fans in the Speedway held up three fingers during the third lap of the race in honor of Dale Earnhardt, Sr., who passed away 25 years ago from a crash at Daytona 500.
Tyler Reddick grabbed the victory in a thrilling final-lap dash at Daytona International Speedway. It was the first Daytona 500 victory of his career.
Michael Jordan Celebrates His First Win As Co-Owner Of 23XI Racing
The event was especially monumental, as basketball legend Michael Jordan won his first Daytona 500 as a co-owner of Reddick’s team. The six-time NBA champion lifted the Harley J. Earl Trophy with his crew from 23XI Racing.
The race also just so happened to take place on the same day as the 2026 NBA All-Star game. Jordan was named an NBA All-Star 14 times during his career.
Many are stuck watching the worst basketball of all time at All-Star Weekend and Michael Jordan is at the Daytona 500 winning Championships. pic.twitter.com/p4j6wAJ3tY
Jordan grew up as a NASCAR fan in North Carolina and has co-owned 23XI Racing with driver Denny Hamlin since 2020. The NBA icon celebrated with Reddick, saying the victory was as exciting as one of his basketball championships.
“I’m ecstatic! It’s so gratifying. You never know how these races are gonna end. I feel like I won a championship!” Jordan said.
Watch Michael Jordan celebrate the special moment below.
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