DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — As the NASCAR season kicks off, drivers find themselves fully immersed in the demanding schedule of Daytona 500 week, balancing track sessions and media commitments without much downtime. Despite the hectic pace, many say this period is their favorite part of the year, highlighting the unique energy and challenges the event offers.
During this packed timeframe, athletes relish the chance to return to competition after the offseason, with fresh opportunities to win races fueling their enthusiasm. The focus on the Daytona 500 intensifies as drivers move from media obligations to practice and qualifying sessions, creating a week unlike any other on the NASCAR calendar.
Varied Highlights for Different Drivers Throughout Speedweeks
While the structure of Speedweeks has been streamlined compared to previous years, the excitement remains high. Some drivers, like Ricky Stenhouse Jr., thrive on the nonstop action.
I enjoy coming down and just doing stuff all week,
Stenhouse Jr. told FanBuzz.
My schedule is slammed, but I love it. We haven’t been doing a whole lot (over the offseason).
This passion for the all-consuming pace contrasts with others who appreciate specific aspects of the week. The busy Media Day, with its packed schedule and media sessions, can wear down many participants, but not Stenhouse Jr., who still longs for the multi-week format of Speedweeks.
The Duel and Early Race Laps Bring Unique Thrills
One part of the week that stands out for many drivers is the Duel races, which determine entry for some competitors and crank up the competitive intensity early in the season. Two-time Daytona 500 champion William Byron described this as his favorite moment.
The best part to me is probably the Duel tomorrow night,
Byron explained.
When you get in that race, you get the juices flowing again; you feel those feelings again. That is almost more intense than the 500 in some ways.
I feel like those first couple laps of the Duel, you’re getting your bearings and there’s a lot happening quickly. Yeah, I look forward to that more than anything.
For Byron and others, these opening duels rekindle the adrenaline rush and strategic focus that define the racing season. However, this competitive highlight is not universally favored, as some drivers cherish quieter moments during the week instead.
Enjoying Behind-the-Scenes Teamwork and Preparation
Beyond the glitz and pressure of live racing, certain drivers value the time spent with their crews during practice and preparation. Ryan Blaney shared how the camaraderie and teamwork during Daytona 500 week stand out compared to other parts of the season.
This week is special when we all know what we’re racing for, but to kick off the year and working with your guys through the week and working through practice and getting ready for the Duel,
Blaney said.
I love that type of stuff. It’s different than preparing at the shop during the week and having those meetings.
Once we’re finally here and now we’re competing, and I just love the camaraderie that everyone has with each other, getting to joke around and work through things with the 15 people that go to battle with you every weekend.
Similarly, Chris Buescher expressed an unexpected appreciation for the slower moments, highlighting the value of extended time alongside his team away from the constant spotlight and pressure found during race day.
Massive Crowds and Celebrity Presence Create a Unique Atmosphere
A defining characteristic of the Daytona 500 is its legendary, star-studded crowd. The event has sold out for 11 consecutive years, attracting celebrities from a wide range of fields. Names like Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Matthew McConaughey, and Anthony Mackie have been involved as dignitaries, while others such as James Caan, Tom Segura, Tom Cruise, Cuba Gooding Jr., and Drew Carey have enjoyed the race as spectators.
Although the large crowds and media attention can be overwhelming for some drivers trying to focus on the race, others, like Noah Gragson, find this aspect especially energizing.
My absolute favorite part is the 30-45 minutes leading up to the race,
Gragson said.
Going to the driver’s meeting and seeing all the celebrities, all the people that are here, all the partners. I meet with them all day, walking out to driver intros. You’re kind of the main character in that sense, at least 40 of us are, and it’s pretty awesome to just literally be surrounded.
It’s kind of like when you played soccer as a kid and the parents would do the little tunnel that you’d run through as a kid. That’s the coolest part and I kind of feel that way when you walk out to driver intros. There are just people everywhere. I feed off the attention of people and the fans. I love the fans. It’s sick when they’re all out there. It’s super cool.
Drivers Transition Back to a Grueling Season Ahead
With Media Day behind them, NASCAR drivers are diving into a full schedule consisting of 38 races, numerous media appearances, and long hours in simulators. Though some weeks may feel draining, especially when competition is tough, the unique atmosphere and packed experience of Daytona 500 week remains unmatched in their memories.
Their reflections underscore the multifaceted nature of the event — from intense on-track battles to bonding behind the scenes and the thrill of being part of a spectacle that draws fans and celebrities alike. As the season progresses, the passion ignited during this marquee event continues to drive these athletes forward.
By the end of #Daytona500 Media Day, some drivers were worn out. @StenhouseJr was not among this group.
He loves this part of the season, and he still misses the multi-week Speedweeks schedule. pic.twitter.com/LC8nipTLTM— John Newby (@JohnNewby_) February 11, 2026
I've asked quite a few drivers today for their favorite part of this marathon week. Chris Buescher gave me an answer I didn't expect. pic.twitter.com/VIzcyH9o2R
— John Newby (@JohnNewby_) February 11, 2026
Noah Gragson told me earlier today that his favorite part of the race week is pre-race. The grid is packed, celebrities are everywhere, and he's having fun with fans.
So I followed up by asking about the celebrity interactions. pic.twitter.com/uickpK0VCo— John Newby (@JohnNewby_) February 11, 2026
