Hold onto your helmets, racing fans, because the Daytona 500 is shaping up to be a thriller! The starting grid is set, and the battle for the pole position has already delivered some jaw-dropping moments. But here's where it gets controversial: while Kyle Busch secured the top spot with a blistering lap time of 49.006 seconds, the real drama lies in the unique qualifying process that sets this race apart from any other on the Cup Series schedule. And this is the part most people miss: the final starting positions for most drivers are determined not by Wednesday’s qualifying laps, but by Thursday night’s Duel at Daytona races. Let’s break it down.
After the first day of Speedweek at Daytona International Speedway, we know who’ll be leading the pack on Sunday: Kyle Busch and Chase Briscoe will start first and second, respectively. But how did we get here? Qualifying consisted of two rounds on Wednesday, with the top 10 fastest single-lap speeds advancing to the second round to battle for the pole. Among those top contenders were three Hendrick Motorsports drivers: Alex Bowman, Kyle Larson, and Chase Elliott. Bowman clocked in with the sixth-fastest lap at 49.152 seconds, while Larson trailed closely behind at 49.158. Elliott secured the ninth spot with a lap time of 49.22 seconds. Not too shabby, right?
But here’s the twist: the rest of the starting grid won’t be finalized until Thursday night’s Duel at Daytona races. Here’s how it works: the results of the first Duel will determine the odd-numbered starting spots, while the second Duel will fill the even-numbered positions. A total of 41 cars will make the cut, with four open cars being eliminated. This two-tiered system adds an extra layer of strategy and excitement, as drivers must perform not just in qualifying but also in a high-stakes race to secure their spot.
Now, let’s talk about the Duel at Daytona lineups. In Duel 1, Kyle Busch will lead the charge, followed by Ryan Preece and Corey Heim. Alex Bowman will also be in the mix, starting fourth. Over in Duel 2, Chase Briscoe takes the top spot, with Denny Hamlin and Kyle Larson close behind. Chase Elliott will roll off fourth in that race. These Duels are more than just qualifiers—they’re a preview of the intense competition we’ll see on Sunday.
But here’s the question that’s sure to spark debate: Is the current qualifying system fair, or does it give an unfair advantage to drivers who perform better in the Duels than in single-lap qualifying? Some argue that the Duels add an exciting element of unpredictability, while others believe the fastest lap times should be the sole determinant of starting positions. What do you think? Let us know in the comments!
For those tuning in, here’s your TV schedule for the rest of Speedweek. On Thursday, catch the Duel at Daytona races on FS1, starting at 7 p.m. ET. Friday brings qualifying sessions and the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race, also on FS1. Saturday features the ARCA Series race on FOX and more practice sessions. And finally, the main event—the Daytona 500—airs on FOX at 2:30 p.m. ET on Sunday. Mark your calendars, grab your snacks, and get ready for a weekend of heart-pounding action!
Oh, and one last thing: don’t forget to test your Daytona 500 knowledge with our biggest prize pack quiz yet. Could you be our next big winner? Click the link to find out!
