Joey Logano, the 2015 winner of the Daytona 500, and Hendrick Motorsports driver Chase Elliott secured wins in the Duel 1 and Duel 2 races, respectively, on Thursday night at Daytona International Speedway. These results established the starting lineup for the upcoming Daytona 500 on Sunday, February 15.
Details of Duel 1: Logano Holds Off Teammate Ryan Blaney
Logano led the field during the final phase of Duel 1, maintaining position through the third caution on lap 63, which extended the race into an overtime finish. He successfully held off Ryan Blaney, his teammate from Team Penske, to take the win. This victory positions Logano’s #22 Ford to start third in Sunday’s main event.
Chase Elliott Edges Out Carson Hocevar in Duel 2
In Duel 2, Chase Elliott took command on lap 53 out of 60 and narrowly defeated Carson Hocevar by just 0.065 seconds to claim the checkered flag. This marked Elliott’s third career victory in the America 250 Florida Duel races. As a result, Elliott will begin the Daytona 500 in fourth place.
Open Car Qualifiers Secure Their Spots for the Daytona 500
Among open teams, Casey Mears and BJ McLeod were the fastest in their respective duels, earning their entries into the 41-driver Daytona 500 field. Mears finished eighth in Duel 1, and although Anthony Alfredo initially finished ahead in Duel 2, McLeod secured the spot after Alfredo was disqualified following a post-race inspection. Notable open drivers qualifying for the race include Jimmie Johnson (via the OEP rule), Justin Allgaier, Corey Heim, Mears, and McLeod.
Overview of the Final Duel Results at Daytona International Speedway
The America 250 Florida Duel races concluded with Joey Logano and Chase Elliott winning Duel 1 and Duel 2, respectively, setting the stage for Sunday’s Daytona 500. Their performances, along with the results of open car qualifiers, finalize the competitive grid for the prestigious event at Daytona International Speedway.
“Logano was at the front of the field when he survived the third caution on lap 63, three laps into overtime, and held off his teammate Ryan Blaney to win the Duel 1 at Daytona.” ?Anonymous Official Race Report
“Chase Elliott emerged victorious when he took control of the race on Lap 53 of 60 and held off the charge of Carson Hocevar to win his third America 250 Florida Duel of his career.” ?Anonymous Official Race Report
Is this a preview of Sunday? pic.twitter.com/smYWyme1U5
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) February 13, 2026
