The 2026 NASCAR All‑Star Race at Dover’s iconic Monster Mile delivered fireworks from the opening lap, as a nine‑car pileup involving Ryan Preece, Todd Gilliland and Kyle Larson sent shockwaves through the field. Preece’s car erupted in flames, but the driver emerged unharmed, allowing the race to resume with Brad Keselowski taking the early lead.
Hamlin’s Early Ascendancy
Denny Hamlin seized the lead from Keselowski shortly after the restart and never looked back. He would go on to lead a staggering 103 laps, showcasing the speed of his Toyota and pulling away from the pack. His dominance earned him the $1 million prize that accompanies the All‑Star victory.
A Battle for the Podium
Chase Briscoe, Hamlin’s teammate, fought his way to second place, while Erik Jones completed a Toyota 1‑2‑3 for the manufacturers. The race’s mid‑stage saw Allmendinger and Shane Van Gisbergen lock horns for the lead, before Austin Reddick claimed the second segment over a pack that included Briscoe, Hamlin, Daniel Hocevar and Connor Zilisch.
The dynamics shifted dramatically when the segment invert altered the restart order. Austin Dillon and Bubba Wallace each took turns leading, but it was Hamlin who ultimately cleared Briscoe on the final restart, assuming the front spot with 29 laps remaining. From there, he managed the remaining caution periods and held off a late charge from Joey Logano, who had blown a tire and spun into the wall, taking several competitors with him.
Despite an earlier penalty that dropped Connor Zilisch down the order, the youngster managed to climb back into the top five, underscoring the resilience of the field. Throughout the night, multiple crashes reshaped the leaderboard, but Hamlin’s consistency and strategic pit stops kept him at the front.
Celebrations and Aftermath
When the checkered flag finally fell, Denny Hamlin stood atop the podium, clutching the million‑dollar prize and celebrating with his crew. His teammates and rivals alike praised the veteran’s ability to navigate the chaos that defined the evening. The race will be remembered not only for its dramatic incidents but also for the sheer competitiveness that kept fans on the edge of their seats.