Tyler Reddick wins Daytona 500 in dramatic fashion, clinching his biggest career victory on February 16, 2026, at Daytona International Speedway. After leading only the final lap, Reddick surged to the front amidst chaos, delivering the first Daytona 500 triumph for 23XI Racing, co-owned by Michael Jordan.
Reddick Seizes Victory on Last Lap
The spectacle reached its peak in the final moments as Reddick, piloting the No. 45 car, navigated through a series of crashes that eliminated several front-runners. Carson Hocevar was in the lead when he got caught in a crash, opening the door for Reddick, who was running fourth as the field barreled into the last turn. With Chase Elliott ahead, Reddick found his opportunity entering the final corner, executing a critical pass to take the lead. As another collision erupted behind him, teammate Riley Herbst paved a clear path, helping Reddick escape the wreckage and cross the finish line first.
A Landmark Win for 23XI Racing
This victory not only marks Tyler Reddick’s inaugural Daytona 500 win, but also represents the first time 23XI Racing, with Michael Jordan at the helm, has claimed the prestigious event. Despite starting deep in the field in 26th position, Reddick’s resilience paid off. The only lap he led all day was the one that earned him the checkered flag, underscoring the race’s unpredictable nature and the team’s determination.
Key Moments and Race Dynamics
The 2026 Daytona 500 was filled with intense racing and high drama. Reddick’s strategy and awareness allowed him to steer clear of “The Big One” on Lap 124, a massive multi-car crash involving 20 competitors, which reshaped the order for the closing laps. Maintaining focus through late-race mayhem, Reddick made decisive moves when others faltered.
Top Finishers Showcase Intense Competition
The final results showcased a talented and competitive field:
1. Tyler Reddick
2. Ricky Stenhouse Jr.
3. Joey Logano
4. Chase Elliott
5. Brad Keselowski
6. Zane Smith
7. Chris Buescher
8. Riley Herbst
9. Josh Berry
10. Bubba Wallace
While the finish line was marked by carnage and chaos, those who managed to avoid the wreckage were rewarded with top-10 finishes, including veterans like Brad Keselowski, Joey Logano, and newcomers such as Zane Smith and Riley Herbst.
The Next Challenge for Cup Series Drivers
With emotions running high from the explosive conclusion in Daytona, attention now shifts to Atlanta Motor Speedway for the Autotrader 400. Champions and contenders like Reddick, Stenhouse Jr., and Elliott will be looking to build on their momentum when the Cup Series resumes on February 22 at 3 p.m. ET on FOX.
Reddick’s achievement at Daytona underlines the always-unpredictable nature of stock car racing while signaling a new era for 23XI Racing and its fierce stable of competitors.
