A Revived Clash Returns to Daytona
NASCAR has released the full 2027 Daytona International Speedway schedule, confirming that the Wheatley Vodka Clash will make its long‑awaited return on the evening of Saturday, February 13, 2027. The event marks the official kickoff of the series' Speedweeks, a week‑long celebration that draws fans, drivers and sponsors to the historic superspeedway.
First introduced in 1979, the Clash has been a staple of Daytona's opening weekend for decades. After a multi‑year absence, the race will now be anchored by a new multiyear partnership with Wheatley American Vodka, which will serve as the title sponsor. The partnership signals a fresh investment in the event's production and marketing, aiming to restore the excitement that fans remember from its early years.
Daytona 500 and Summer Showdown
The centerpiece of the schedule remains the 69th running of the Daytona 500, set for Sunday, February 21, 2027. The race will follow the Clash as the second marquee event of Speedweeks, continuing the tradition of crown‑jewel racing that defines the sport's most prestigious event.
Later in the year, the summer weekend at Daytona will feature two additional series races. On Friday, August 27, the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series will take to the track, and the following night, Saturday, August 28, will host the Coke Zero Sugar 400. Both events are expected to draw large crowds and provide a dramatic conclusion to the summer racing calendar.
The 2026 edition of the Clash was won by Ryan Preece, but its completion was delayed by heavy snowfall that forced a three‑day postponement. The experience highlighted the series' flexibility in handling adverse weather and underscored the importance of the Daytona venue to NASCAR's overall narrative.
While the schedule for the 2027 national series is now largely defined, NASCAR has indicated that further details regarding the Clash format, eligibility criteria and additional race locations will be announced in upcoming briefings. Fans can look forward to more information as the season approaches.