Daytona 500 sells out for 11th straight year

Daytona International Speedway announced Wednesday morning that the season-opening Daytona 500 is sold out once again.

It is the 11th straight season that NASCAR’s biggest race has had a sellout. Sunday afternoon, fans will watch Hendrick Motorsports driver William Byron and his No. 24 team attempt to become the first driver in history to win for a third straight time in the Daytona 500.

Additionally, the 2026 edition of the event will have the largest purse in its history at $31,045,575.

“The Daytona 500 continues to be a national moment and cultural landmark woven into the fabric of American sport and identity,” said Frank Kelleher, president of Daytona International Speedway. “The demand for fans to experience NASCAR is at an all-time high and their continued support of the sport starts at Daytona. With drivers competing for another record purse of over $31 million in the 68th running of 'The Great American Race,' the history books will be rewritten once again at 'The World Center of Racing.'”

There are limited upgrades available, and premium packages are still for sale.

Chase Briscoe will look to defend his pole position in the Daytona 500 on Wednesday night in single-car qualifying. Briscoe and Austin Cindric made up the front row last year.