Tyler Reddick delivered a sensational performance in NASCAR’s 2026 season opener, clinching the win in the famed Daytona 500 for 23XI Racing on Sunday. In a moment that marked his team’s first-ever Daytona 500 triumph, Reddick led just a single lap—the most important one—as the checkered flag waved him through for victory, making the Tyler Reddick Daytona 500 win a historic achievement.
Michael Jordan Shares His Joy After Historic Win
Following the race, team owner Michael Jordan expressed his overwhelming excitement about the victory, viewing the achievement as a pinnacle for the organization.
“It feels like I won a championship,”
— Michael Jordan, Team Owner
The celebration erupted in Victory Lane, with Tyler Reddick, Michael Jordan, and the entire 23XI Racing organization sharing in the emotional moment as captured by NASCAR on FOX Sports.
23XI Racing’s Growth Since Its Inception
Michael Jordan, who co-owns the team with Denny Hamlin, has watched 23XI Racing evolve significantly since its launch in 2020. Although the team celebrated its initial major victory in 2021 with Bubba Wallace‘s win at Talladega, winning the Daytona 500 marked a new chapter and a long-awaited dream realized. Wallace had previously earned the team’s top finish at Daytona as a runner-up in the number 23 car in 2022. The lineup, which now comprises Bubba Wallace, Riley Herbst, Corey Heim, and Tyler Reddick, blends promising young talents with experienced veterans.
Team Dynamics and Jordan’s Optimistic Vision
Before the race, Michael Jordan spoke candidly about his hopes and confidence in his drivers, highlighting both emerging talent and seasoned leadership.
“We got a couple of young kids that are learning. We’ve got a couple of veterans that are going to be up front. I think we’ve got a good team, good leaders and hopefully one of the four — I’ll take any one of the four — wins,”
— Michael Jordan, Team Owner
“I want to see us at the end, all four cars, which is very difficult, especially at a race like this. You just need to avoid the big one. But if we can put ourselves in a good position, that’s all I’ll ever ask for.”
— Michael Jordan, Team Owner
Jordan’s co-owner, Denny Hamlin, and team leaders like Riley Herbst and Corey Heim continue to guide the next generation, while drivers like Reddick bring valuable experience to the lineup. Jordan’s optimism and passion for the sport are clear, as he views teamwork and perseverance as essential for enduring the intense challenges of a premier event like the Daytona 500.
Tyler Reddick’s Racing Journey Reaches New Heights
Tyler Reddick stands out among the team’s veterans, having made his NASCAR debut at the 2019 Daytona 500. He built his reputation with nine career wins, including victories in the Xfinity Series (champion in both 2018 and 2019) and his 2022 Cup Series win at Road America. Reddick’s regular season championship at the Cup Series level in 2024 set the stage for his remarkable Daytona achievement, further cementing his status as a dominant force in racing.
Looking Forward: Momentum Shifts to Atlanta
The momentum generated by Reddick’s Daytona success propels 23XI Racing into the upcoming NASCAR season, with the next event scheduled for the Autotrader 400 in Atlanta. The team’s determination and unity, highlighted by leaders like Michael Jordan and supported by skilled drivers such as Bubba Wallace, Riley Herbst, Corey Heim, and Tyler Reddick, set high expectations for the races ahead. The Tyler Reddick Daytona 500 win stands as a landmark moment for both the team and NASCAR, inspiring hope and excitement among fans and competitors across the sport.
"It feels like I won a championship." Michael Jordan. Daytona 500 champion. pic.twitter.com/763gfvA0Lp
— FOX: NASCAR (@NASCARONFOX) February 15, 2026
The celebration continues in Victory Lane for Tyler Reddick, Michael Jordan and 23XI Racing. pic.twitter.com/HWGcNLKbCo
— FOX: NASCAR (@NASCARONFOX) February 15, 2026
