NASCAR News: America 250 Florida Duels Preview: Thursday Night Action at Daytona

Following last night’s dramatic qualifying session, where Kyle Busch captured his first-ever Daytona 500 pole (49.006 seconds / 183.651 mph) in the No. 8 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet, all eyes turn to tonight’s America 250 Florida Duels at Daytona Speedway. These two 60-lap (150-mile) races will set the starting lineup for Sunday’s 2026 Daytona 500, determining positions 3 through 40 while delivering classic superspeedway pack racing under the lights.

Tonight’s Schedule (All times ET, FS1)
– 7:00 p.m. – America 250 Florida Duel 1
– 8:45 p.m. – America 250 Florida Duel 2

Duel 1: Busch Leads a Strong Chevrolet-Heavy Field

Kyle Busch starts on the pole of Duel 1 and will look to translate his qualifying speed into a strong run. He’s joined up front by Ryan Preece (#60), Corey Heim (#67, i), Alex Bowman (#48), and Chris Buescher (#17).

Other notables include Joey Logano, Austin Dillon, Brad Keselowski, Ryan Blaney, and William Byron. Keep an eye on veterans Jimmie Johnson (starting 15th in the No. 84) and road-course ace Shane Van Gisbergen (No. 97), plus open drivers fighting for the final Daytona 500 spots.

Duel 2: Briscoe and the Heavy Hitters

Chase Briscoe earned the outside pole in qualifying and starts on the front row of Duel 2 in the No. 19 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota. He’ll have immediate company from heavyweights Denny Hamlin (#11), Kyle Larson (#5), Chase Elliott (#9), Ty Gibbs (#54), and Christopher Bell (#20).

This duel is stacked with contenders: Austin Cindric, Michael McDowell, rookie sensation Connor Zilisch (#88), Tyler Reddick, and Carson Hocevar. Expect intense drafting battles among the playoff favorites and championship contenders.

What to Watch For

– Momentum for Sunday: Duel winners traditionally earn excellent starting spots and early-season confidence.
– The Big One: Restrictor-plate-style racing at Daytona means one mistake in the pack can erase strong runs in an instant.
– Rookies & Surprises: Connor Zilisch and SVG bring fresh excitement, while part-timers and open drivers battle for the remaining 500 spots.
– Manufacturer Pride: Chevrolet (Duel 1 strength) vs. Toyota (Duel 2 firepower) vs. Ford.

The Duels always deliver drama, strategy, and highlight-reel moments that set the tone for Speedweek. Tune in to FS1 starting at 7 p.m. ET for what promises to be an action-packed night at the World Center of Racing.

Who are you picking to win the Duels tonight? Let the 2026 Daytona 500 buildup begin!

Duel 1 Starting Lineup

Duel 2 Starting Lineup