Dale Earnhardt Jr Daytona 500 hopes are reignited as JR Motorsports prepares its second consecutive attempt at the NASCAR Cup Series’ biggest race in 2026. The team has tapped 2024 Xfinity Series champion Justin Allgaier to drive the No. 40 Chevrolet at the iconic Daytona International Speedway next February.
JR Motorsports Confirms Daytona 500 Entry for 2026
Following their debut in the 2025 Daytona 500, Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s organization, JR Motorsports, announced on Friday it will make another run at “The Great American Race” in 2026. Allgaier, who has a strong history in the Xfinity Series, will again take the wheel and attempt to qualify for the 68th running of the event scheduled for February 15, 2026. Returning for another year, JRM is demonstrating its commitment to challenging the established Cup Series teams on one of racing’s grandest stages.
Justin Allgaier must qualify for the Daytona 500 either through time trials or by racing his way in during the duel event, as is the custom for teams without a guaranteed starting spot. He brings with him the momentum of a top-10 finish at Daytona in 2025, where he started 19th and crossed the line ninth. This previous performance under pressure showcases Allgaier’s skill on superspeedways and bolsters JRM’s confidence in their repeat effort.
“Who’s ready for an encore? @JRMotorsports announces it will attempt to qualify for the #DAYTONA500 with the No. 40 Chevrolet driven by @J_Allgaier. pic.twitter.com/dFgknbUD7q”
— NASCAR (@NASCAR)
Allgaier’s Accomplishments and Earnhardt Legacy Shine at Daytona
Justin Allgaier stands as one of Xfinity Series’ most consistent contenders, having entered 504 races and secured victory in 28 of them. His 2024 season culminated in an eighth appearance in the Championship 4 within a decade, further solidifying his reputation.
For Dale Earnhardt Jr., overseeing a second Daytona 500 campaign as a team owner marks another milestone at a track where his family name is legendary. Earnhardt Jr. captured Daytona 500 wins in 2004 and 2014, building on the Earnhardt name after his father, Dale Earnhardt Sr., triumphed in the storied race in 1998. These accomplishments underscore both the personal and professional significance Daytona holds for the Earnhardt family, and their presence continues to add to the race’s rich legacy.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Race
The 2026 Daytona 500 represents both another competitive challenge for JR Motorsports and a chance for Allgaier to further his career on NASCAR’s biggest platform. The return of a successful Xfinity standout like Allgaier, supported by an iconic team owner in Earnhardt Jr., adds depth and excitement to a race that already commands the sport’s spotlight. As the field forms and qualifying drama unfolds, the spotlight will be on Allgaier and the No. 40 Chevrolet, carrying forward the Earnhardt tradition at Daytona.
Who's ready for an encore? @JRMotorsports announces it will attempt to qualify for the #DAYTONA500 with the No. 40 Chevrolet driven by @J_Allgaier. pic.twitter.com/dFgknbUD7q
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) November 15, 2025
