The opening weekend of the 2026 NASCAR season at Daytona International Speedway drew heavy anticipation, but unexpected grip issues on the track became the headline, especially after Thursday’s Cup Series Duels. Denny Hamlin, a seasoned driver and co-owner of 23XI Racing, pointed to several key factors contributing to the Denny Hamlin Daytona grip issues, shifting the conversation from drivers’ performance to the track itself.
The qualifying sessions kicked off with strong showings from JR Motorsports and Kyle Busch. Justin Allgaier secured his spot in the main race for a second year, while Busch, in pursuit of his 63rd career win, claimed pole position, benefiting his long-standing effort for victory. However, as the event advanced to the Duels that completed the starting grid, attention turned sharply to widespread grip shortcomings, with even top-tier drivers struggling to control their vehicles.
Track Aging and Technical Adjustments Identified as Causes
After competing Thursday, Denny Hamlin spoke to the media, highlighting technical changes and natural track evolution behind the grip issues. According to Hamlin, the cars felt faster compared to previous years, largely due to the aging Daytona surface and modifications made to the vehicle’s aerodynamics. Hamlin specified that the addition of wicker to the side of the A-post, designed to redirect airflow from the spoiler, might be worsening instability on the track.
“The track ages another year. It’s just, small differences that can make the cars a little bit more unstable than what they were in the past. We obviously have that wicker on the side of our A-post that deflects a little air from the spoiler, which also could contribute to it.”
– Denny Hamlin, 23XI Racing Co-owner
While these technical alterations impacted handling, Hamlin also noted that driver behavior, particularly aggressive moves and pushing cars to their limits, amplified the instability. Bob Pockrass, reporting on site, relayed Hamlin’s remarks about how these factors came together to create several incidents during the Duels.
Multiple Incidents Disrupt Field in Daytona Duels
Joey Logano, the winner of the first Duel, was among those who found the lack of grip difficult, stating his car was unpredictable and moved erratically, especially under pressure from trailing cars. This instability resulted in various spins and on-track altercations, impacting several competitors’ chances, particularly for open entries vying for the coveted Daytona 500 qualifying spots.
Late in Duel 1, a spin caused significant shake-ups in the field standings. Casey Mears from Garage 66 managed to secure a qualifying position, while BJ McLeod of Live Fast Motorsports claimed the other available spot. The incidents highlighted how technical modifications, track wear, and competitive driving combined for a challenging evening at Daytona for all involved.
Focus Shifts to Main Races Amid Ongoing Grip Concerns
With the grid locked in, NASCAR’s attention pivots to the Truck Series and Cup Series main events, where racers hope for improved grip and safety. As drivers like Justin Allgaier, Joey Logano, and Kyle Busch prepare for these crucial races, questions remain about how surface wear and evolving car designs will affect future competitions at Daytona International Speedway. The developments this weekend underscore the uncertain and high-stakes nature of NASCAR’s evolution, with teams, fans, and officials monitoring changes that could influence the championship and the dynamics of race weekends to come.
Denny Hamlin on the nature of the racing Thursday and why the cars might be a little bit more out of control. @NASCARONFOX pic.twitter.com/qsahRIV9fB
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) February 13, 2026
