The 2026 Daytona 500 will have different rules for qualifying. This rule change will affect how the Open cars qualify for the race. A last-minute change that might have some NASCAR fans wondering why it wasn't made sooner, or why the rule couldn't just stay the same.
This isn't a radical rule change by any means. However, Open cars used to race for the four spots available to them in the field through the Duel races. If there are more than four Open cars, then you have a real elimination process, and the drivers have to race their way into the event. That sort of stays the same, with one minor change.
In single-car qualifying, the top two Open cars will now be locked into the Daytona 500, according to Bob Pockrass of FOX Sports. They will still have in the Duels, but they will not have to race for a spot in the Great American Race on Sunday.
From there, the rest of the Open cars will race for the other two spots. The best finishing Open car from each Duel will be selected. Only one Open car from each Duel race will transfer into the Daytona 500.
What Does This Change Mean?
Mandatory Credit: Mike Watters-Imagn Images
This should be a simpler structure for fans in real time. Two drivers advance in single-car qualifying, two drivers advance out of the Duels. The field is set. Don't forget, Jimmie Johnson has the Open Exemption Provisional and will make the field regardless, meaning this is potentially a 41-car field.
This year, there is a healthy batch of Open cars racing in the Duels. It is going to be an exciting qualifying process for the Daytona 500. Everyone will be watching a little closer in single-car qualifying, and the intensity will only be heightened in the Duels.
Now, let's hope the weather forecast holds up.