NASCAR Cup Series at Daytona: Lineup, TV Schedule and What to Expect
Get ready for the roar of engines and the thrill of close racing, as the NASCAR Cup Series heads to Daytona International Speedway for the Daytona 500! The season opener is always a spectacle, and this year is no exception, with a star-studded lineup, exciting storylines, and a thrilling race day ahead.
This article will give you everything you need to know about the 2023 Daytona 500, including the starting lineup, the TV schedule, key drivers to watch, and a few predictions for the race.
The Starting Lineup
The Daytona 500 qualifying process is unique, with a qualifying race format leading to the final starting grid. This year, the field is set, and here are some of the drivers to keep an eye on:
- Austin Cindric: The reigning Daytona 500 champion, Cindric has a chance to become the first driver since Dale Jarrett in 1996 to win back-to-back Daytona 500 races.
- Joey Logano: The 2022 NASCAR Cup Series champion, Logano will be looking to start his season strong with a Daytona 500 victory.
- Denny Hamlin: One of the most consistent drivers at Daytona, Hamlin has four Daytona 500 victories and will be a contender again this year.
- Kyle Busch: Busch returns to the Cup Series with Richard Childress Racing after his departure from Joe Gibbs Racing. He is a threat to win at any track, and Daytona is no exception.
The TV Schedule
Here's the TV schedule for the Daytona 500, so you don't miss a second of the action:
- Qualifying: Saturday, February 18, at 3:00 PM ET on FS1
- Duels: Thursday, February 16, at 7:00 PM ET on FS1
- Race: Sunday, February 19, at 2:30 PM ET on FOX
What to Expect
The Daytona 500 is known for its close racing, as the cars travel in tight packs and often draft each other to gain speed. This can lead to a lot of contact, accidents, and even surprise victories.
- The Big One: This is the nickname for a major accident that often happens at Daytona. With so many cars on the track, it's difficult to avoid contact, and a single incident can quickly escalate.
- Drafting: The key to success at Daytona is mastering the art of drafting. Drivers use the slipstream of the car in front of them to gain speed and pass.
- Strategy: Teams will need to use smart pit strategies and tire management to stay in contention.
Predictions
It's impossible to predict the winner with certainty, but here are a few drivers who could be in contention:
- Austin Cindric: The reigning champion always has a chance, and he knows how to win at Daytona.
- Denny Hamlin: Hamlin's experience at Daytona makes him a top contender, and he's always a threat.
- Kyle Busch: Busch is one of the best drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series, and he's hungry to win.
Get Ready for the Race!
The Daytona 500 is always a thrilling race, and this year promises to be no exception. With a star-studded lineup and exciting storylines, the race is sure to be a classic. So, get ready to cheer on your favorite drivers and enjoy the spectacle of NASCAR's biggest race!
Key Points
- The Daytona 500 is the season opener for the NASCAR Cup Series.
- The race is known for its close racing, drafting, and potential for major accidents.
- Several top drivers, including Austin Cindric, Joey Logano, Denny Hamlin, and Kyle Busch, are contenders to win.
- The race will be televised on FOX on Sunday, February 19, at 2:30 PM ET.
Don't miss out on the excitement of the Daytona 500! Tune in on Sunday and see who takes home the checkered flag.
