Daytona’s Final Playoff Showdown
The NASCAR Winn‑Dixie 250 will light up Daytona International Speedway on August 28, 2026, as the last chance for drivers to lock in a spot in the O’Reilly Chase. With twelve drivers already secured, the race could reshape the playoff picture just days before the championship begins.
Action kicks off with driver introductions at 6:55 p.m. ET, followed by the green flag at 7:30 p.m. ET. The 100‑lap, 250‑mile event will be streamed live on ESPN Unlimited and The CW, while qualifying sessions earlier in the day will air on ESPN Unlimited and truTV/HBO Max.
Justin Allgaier currently tops the standings, but Parker Retzlaff is within striking distance, needing roughly ten points to clinch the final playoff berth. Defending race winner Connor Zilisch will also be a factor, as will a handful of contenders battling for the last four spots.
Goodyear will debut a new tire construction for the event, a detail that could influence strategy on the 2.5‑mile tri‑oval. Fans will be able to roam the frontstretch from 6:45 to 7:15 p.m. ET, adding a unique atmosphere to the evening.
The broadcast will also be available on MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, ensuring coverage across multiple platforms. The outcome will set the stage for the September 17 Chase opener at Bristol Motor Speedway.
What’s at stake
Beyond playoff positioning, the race marks the end of the Craftsman Truck Series regular season and serves as a final test for teams ahead of the championship stretch. The stakes are high, the competition fierce, and the night promises fireworks under the Florida lights.