A Nostalgic Return to Daytona
Daytona International Speedway has decided to christen the final race of the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series with a name that resonates with longtime fans, bringing back the Winn‑Dixie 250 moniker that last appeared in the early 2000s.
The race will take place on August 28 at 7:30 p.m., directly preceding the Cup Series’ Coke Zero Sugar 400 on August 29, both events powered by Coca‑Cola and designed to cap a weekend of high‑octane competition.
Speedway President Frank Kelleher explained that reuniting Winn‑Dixie and Coca‑Cola as partners is a deliberate nod to the shared history that has shaped the track’s community outreach and fan experience.
Denny Hamlin captured the last edition of the Winn‑Dixie‑branded event in 2008, a victory that marked his first triumph at the speedway and adds a layer of nostalgia for longtime followers of the sport.
Gayle Shields, chief merchandising and marketing officer for Winn‑Dixie, emphasized the brand’s deep roots in Jacksonville and its commitment to supporting local communities through sport.
The partnership also reflects a broader strategy to blend corporate heritage with the excitement of NASCAR, a move that both sponsors say will create memorable experiences for fans attending the event.