The 2026 NASCAR season kicked off with a spectacular moment for 23XI Racing and co-owner Michael Jordan as Tyler Reddick claimed a dramatic win at the Daytona 500. Despite Chase Elliott appearing poised for victory coming out of the final turn, Reddick showed remarkable composure, dodging a huge crash to secure the historic triumph. According to Jordan, none of that would have happened without the critical support from Riley Herbst.
Driving the No. 45 Toyota Camry XSE, Reddick notched 23XI Racing’s inaugural Daytona 500 triumph. After the race, Jordan celebrated the win but made a point to emphasize Herbst’s vital assistance during the last-lap push that made the victory possible. Prior to the day’s main event, 23XI’s drivers appeared unlikely contenders—Herbst’s best finish in the Duel races was 15th in Duel 2, Bubba Wallace finished 16th in Duel 1, and Reddick came in 20th in the same Duel race as Herbst. However, when it counted most, Jordan’s team found new momentum as three riders placed in the top ten, marking a strong start to the Chase season format.
Behind the Scenes: How Riley Herbst’s Push Secured the Daytona Win
The turning point of the race happened during the final moments when Herbst’s push enabled Reddick to overtake competitors and clinch his first-ever Daytona 500 win. Reflecting on the accomplishment, Jordan underlined Herbst’s exceptional teamwork, acknowledging that the younger driver’s contribution will likely go underappreciated by many.
I thought Riley did a really unbelievable job by pushing at the end. That shows you what teamwork can really, really do. He won’t get enough credit, but we feel the love. We understand exactly what he did.
—Michael Jordan, 23XI Racing Co-owner
Jordan Compares Daytona Win to an NBA Championship
After praising Herbst, Jordan also expressed how much the victory means to him personally as a team owner. As a six-time NBA champion with the Chicago Bulls, Jordan equated winning the Daytona 500 to securing a championship title, emphasizing the significance of the moment before officially receiving a commemorative ring.
I’m ecstatic. I don’t even know what to say. It feels like I won a championship, but until I get my ring, I won’t even know.
—Michael Jordan, 23XI Racing Co-owner
Race Results Underscore Strong Showing from 23XI Drivers
In addition to helping Reddick achieve victory, Riley Herbst finished a commendable 8th place, narrowly trailing RFK driver Chris Buescher. Bubba Wallace also delivered a solid performance, securing a spot within the top ten by placing 10th, just behind WBR’s Josh Berry who finished 9th. This strong collective effort by 23XI racers highlights the team’s growing competitiveness as the season progresses.
Implications of 23XI Racing’s Daytona 500 Success
This Daytona 500 win marks a defining moment for 23XI Racing, showcasing the potential of its drivers and leadership under Michael Jordan’s guidance. Herbst’s clutch push exemplifies the importance of strategy and collaboration in NASCAR, and the triumph sets an optimistic tone for the rest of the 2026 season. With momentum on their side, the team looks poised to challenge for further victories in the Chase format.
A Harley J. Earl Trophy is a great early birthday present. pic.twitter.com/yyCSspX99P
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) February 15, 2026
