Daytona 500 Guide: Essential Details for Sunday on TSN

Casey Halston

Published: February 13, 2026 7:34 PM ET

Daytona 500 Guide: Essential Details for Sunday on TSN

The Daytona 500 stands as one of the most prestigious events in stock car racing, drawing competitors and fans to Daytona Beach, Florida. Celebrated for over six decades, this legendary race showcases the pinnacle of NASCAR talent.

History of the Daytona 500

The Daytona 500 first took place in 1959 when Bill France Sr. built a 2.5-mile oval track, representing a shift from racing on the beach to a formalized course. Although stock car racing on Daytona’s sandy shores started in 1902, the creation of the track marked the birth of the Great American Race.

2023 Daytona 500: Essential Broadcast Information

Fans can watch the Daytona 500 live on TSN, TSN.ca, and the TSN App. Coverage begins on Sunday at 1:30 PM ET/10:30 AM PT.

Top Contenders to Watch

This year’s race features several favorites, including:

Joey Logano – Team Penske star and a top contender.
Ryan Blaney – Also from Team Penske, he finished strong in qualifying.
Denny Hamlin – A multi-time Daytona 500 champion vying for another win.
William Byron – A repeat champion looking to defend his title.
Chase Elliott – The son of a two-time winner, aiming for his first Daytona 500 victory.

Notable Drivers to Keep an Eye On

Several lesser-known but talented drivers may surprise fans on race day, including:

Chris Buescher – He will start in the last position after a challenging qualifying round.
Bubba Wallace – A rising star who has come close to winning in previous years.
Austin Dillon – He won in dramatic fashion in a previous race.
Austin Cindric – The 2022 Daytona 500 winner with an impressive racing resume.

Historic Milestones and Records

William Byron, last year’s winner, seeks to join an elite group of repeat winners. The legendary Richard Petty holds the record with seven wins, while Denny Hamlin aims to tie with four victories if he wins this year. Notable competitors like Kyle Busch and Brad Keselowski are still searching for their breakthrough victory at this event.

Challenges and Injuries

Several drivers are facing injuries as they head into the race. Denny Hamlin is nursing a shoulder injury, while Brad Keselowski is recovering from a femur injury. Both athletes are determined to compete despite their challenges.

Unique Aspects of the 2023 Daytona 500

The upcoming race marks the 20th anniversary of the film “Cars,” with themed attractions at the race venue. This year’s grand marshal is comedian Nate Bargatze, and Kurt Russell will drive the honorary pace car.

Key Takeaways for Fans

As fans prepare for the Daytona 500, here are a few pointers to enhance the viewing experience:

Shout “I can’t believe it’s been 25 years!” whenever the black No. 3 car is shown, honoring Dale Earnhardt.
Recognize former athletes in the pit crew, as many now come from college sports backgrounds.
Anticipate exciting action as the race approaches its final laps; expect thrilling finishes.

The Daytona 500 promises to deliver excitement and suspense, making it a must-watch event this Sunday. Tune in to see who will take home the coveted checkered flag and join NASCAR history.