Ryan Preece has changed the narrative of his NASCAR Cup Series journey with a surge of impressive results in 2026, recently securing another victory as the Daytona 500 approaches. His latest win in the Tour-Type Modified division at the World Series of Asphalt Stock Car Racing at New Smyrna Speedway has further solidified Ryan Preece 2026 race wins as a headline story.
Preece Continues Hot Streak with Tour-Type Modified Win
Traditionally viewed as a driver making limited impact while frequently switching teams, Ryan Preece’s move to join RFK Racing alongside Brad Keselowski and Chris Buescher re-energized his Cup Series career. Preece delivered an outstanding debut in 2025 and has since kicked off 2026 by capturing the Cook Out Clash on February 4, a victory that signaled his growing competitiveness and confidence. Only days later, he clinched his 14th win in the Tour-Type Modified division during the World Series of Asphalt at New Smyrna Speedway, showcasing his versatility and endurance.
After his latest achievement at New Smyrna, Preece expressed his excitement, crediting the fun and camaraderie he finds in racing with those closest to him.
“I’m just having a lot of fun. These past seven days have been a lot of fun, racing with my dad, racing with my friends. To go from Bowman Gray, drive down here, race the Late Model, and then race this Modified and get back to victory lane, it was really cool.”
– Ryan Preece, NASCAR Cup Series driver
Recent Results Reflect Growing Momentum for Preece
Preece’s recent victories have come after intense stretches of racing, underscoring his drive and determination. He openly admitted that his competitive fire is fueled even more by the prospect of losing than by the lure of winning, a viewpoint often shared by the most successful athletes. NASCAR Cup Series driver Ryan Preece outperformed Patrick Emerling and Jimmy Blewett at New Smyrna to add another checkered flag to his collection, highlighted in coverage by reporters such as Jacob Dove.
Such resilience is drawing attention not only for Preece personally but also for the marketing team behind RFK Racing, as they look to translate these results into broader brand momentum. Winning so soon before the Daytona 500 and overcoming disruptions, like the earlier Cook Out Clash delays, proves the level of commitment Preece brings to a grueling racing schedule.
Eyes Set on Daytona 500 with Renewed Confidence
Chasing the prestigious Harley J. Early trophy at the Daytona 500 remains a driving ambition for Preece, and with recent victories injecting new energy into the No. 60 team, 2026 offers fresh hope. Preece believes the taste of victory could change the psychological outlook of his team, elevating their hunger for results at NASCAR’s flagship race.
“I don’t know if they’ve experienced winning like this, and what I know from my own experience is when you win, it’ll create this monster in you where you want to win again.”
– Ryan Preece, NASCAR Cup Series driver
“I know I had that burning desire, and my team had it, but now they’re going to want it even more, and yeah, I believe in momentum, and I believe our team is going to go into the Daytona 500 and we’re going to be ready.”
– Ryan Preece, NASCAR Cup Series driver
Preece’s passionate mindset and energetic approach are quickly reshaping expectations within the paddock. With intense recent victories at tracks like Bowman Gray and New Smyrna Speedway, and key figures such as Brad Keselowski and Chris Buescher supporting the RFK Racing effort, all eyes are now on Preece as the Daytona 500 draws near. His ability to deliver under pressure could prove vital in the pursuit of NASCAR’s ultimate prize in 2026.
NASCAR Cup Series driver Ryan Preece wins the Tour Modified feature tonight at New Smyrna Speedway 🏁🏆
2nd Patrick Emerling
3rd Jimmy Blewett pic.twitter.com/56gwJ4flp1— Jacob Dove (@JDove_Phenom) February 11, 2026
