Daytona 500 Betting Odds, Start Time, and Favorites for the NASCAR Race
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- 10 min read
The 68th Daytona 500 is happening on Sunday, February 15, 2026, starting at 2:30 p.m. ET on FOX. Known as NASCAR’s biggest race, it combines speed, strategy, and unpredictability, making it a favorite for fans and bettors alike.
Key Details:
Start Time: 2:30 p.m. ET (Green flag at 3:13 p.m. ET)
Broadcast: FOX, FOX Sports App, and streaming platforms like YouTube TV
Pre-Race Events: Miranda Lambert concert, U.S. Air Force flyover, and Kurt Russell as pace-car driver
Favorites and Odds:
Denny Hamlin: +900 (3-time winner)
Joey Logano & Ryan Blaney: +1000
William Byron: +1600 (seeking 3rd straight win)
Kyle Busch: +1300 to +1400 (pole position)
Betting Insights:
Daytona’s unpredictability often favors longshots. Recent winners had odds of +3300 or longer.
Platforms like BettorEdge allow peer-to-peer betting, letting users set custom odds and avoid sportsbook fees.
What to Watch:
William Byron aims for a historic three-peat.
Kyle Busch starts on pole for the first time, looking for his first Daytona 500 win.
Denny Hamlin could tie legends with a 4th victory.
The Daytona 500 is more than a race - it’s a test of timing, skill, and survival. Whether you're betting on favorites or longshots, this year’s event promises plenty of drama.
Daytona 500 Start Time and Event Schedule
Race Start Time and Where to Watch
The 68th Daytona 500 will air live on FOX from Daytona International Speedway on Sunday, February 15, 2026. Pre-race coverage begins at 2:00 p.m. ET, with the official race starting at 2:30 p.m. ET. The ceremonial green flag is set to drop at 3:13 p.m. ET, following several pre-race highlights, including a Miranda Lambert concert, Nate Bargatze's engine command, and a U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds flyover. Actor Kurt Russell will take on the role of celebrity pace-car driver.
To catch the action, fans can tune in via the FOX Sports website, the FOX Sports App, or popular streaming platforms like YouTube TV, Sling TV, Hulu+ Live TV, and fuboTV. For those who prefer radio, the Motor Racing Network (MRN) will provide live audio coverage. The race itself consists of 200 laps covering 500 miles on the 2.5-mile superspeedway, divided into three stages: 65 laps, another 65 laps, and a final 70-lap segment.
In addition to the main race, a lineup of pre-race activities and practice sessions throughout the week adds to the excitement.
Pre-Race Events and Timing
Race week kicks off on Wednesday, February 11, with Cup Series practice and single-car qualifying, where Kyle Busch and Chase Briscoe secured the front-row starting positions. On Thursday, the NASCAR Cup Series Duels will determine the lineup for positions 3 through 41. Duel #1 begins at 7:00 p.m. ET, followed by Duel #2 at 8:45 p.m. ET, both airing on FS1.
The action continues on Friday with the Fresh from Florida 250 Truck Series at 7:30 p.m. ET, while Saturday features a packed schedule:
ARCA Menards Series 200 at noon
Final Cup Series practice at 3:00 p.m. ET
United Rentals 300 Xfinity Series at 5:00 p.m. ET, airing on The CW
This extensive schedule not only builds excitement leading up to race day but also provides opportunities for bettors to track live odds and engage in peer-to-peer betting through platforms like BettorEdge. Each event sets the stage for an unforgettable Daytona 500 experience.
2026 NASCAR Betting: Daytona 500 Odds and Best Bets
Betting Odds and Market Breakdown
Top Contenders and Their Odds
The betting market for the 2026 Daytona 500 highlights Denny Hamlin as the frontrunner with odds at +900, followed by Joey Logano at +1000 and Ryan Blaney at +1100. Hamlin, a three-time Daytona 500 winner, has the most wins among active drivers and brings years of drafting expertise. His consistency and experience make him a strong favorite.
William Byron, with odds of +1600, is an intriguing pick, especially for those eyeing a potential three-peat. Meanwhile, Kyle Busch, who recently secured pole position on February 11, 2026, saw his odds shift to +1300. Former driver Kevin Harvick commented that "a fast Kyle Busch is 'dangerous' for NASCAR's Daytona 500 field". This marks Busch’s first-ever pole at Daytona, adding a strategic edge as he aims to complete his crown-jewel sweep with a Daytona 500 victory.
Value Picks and Odds Movement
For bettors looking beyond the top names, the mid-tier options provide compelling opportunities. Chase Briscoe, priced at +2000, is one to watch after winning the most recent superspeedway race at Talladega in October 2025. His move to Joe Gibbs Racing has bolstered his confidence, with FOX Sports Motorsports Insider Bob Pockrass noting Briscoe is well-positioned for a strong showing after his debut year with the team.
Another driver worth considering is Kyle Larson, listed at +1800. Motorsports analyst Phil Bobbitt highlights that "Kyle Larson is not traditionally viewed as a superspeedway ace, and that is fine with us... Larson ranks fourth in our superspeedway matrix for this weekend's race, yet oddsmakers are pricing him like the seventh to tenth-best option". Larson’s performance in 2025 included four stage wins across six superspeedway races, showcasing his growing skill in drafting scenarios.
For those seeking longshot bets, Austin Dillon at +5000 stands out. As a two-time Daytona winner, including a victory in the 2018 Daytona 500, Dillon has proven he can capitalize on superspeedway chaos. Historical trends back this strategy, with three of the last four Daytona 500 winners opening with odds of +3300 or longer. In unpredictable races like Daytona, patience and smart positioning often outweigh sheer speed, making these underdog bets particularly enticing.
This dynamic odds movement creates exciting opportunities for bettors, especially when paired with BettorEdge’s innovative platform.
How BettorEdge Peer-to-Peer Betting Works
BettorEdge offers a fresh take on betting by letting users bypass traditional sportsbooks. Unlike fixed sportsbook odds that include house margins, BettorEdge connects bettors directly through a peer-to-peer marketplace. This means you can set your own odds and wait for someone to match your bet or browse existing offers to find better pricing than what sportsbooks typically provide.
For instance, if you think Kyle Busch’s current odds of +1300 undervalue his chances, you can post an offer at +1500 and wait for another bettor to accept. This system creates a community-driven pricing model, where odds are shaped by real market demand rather than algorithms.
BettorEdge also provides flexibility with its plans. The Free Plan allows up to $100/month in marketplace orders without fees, while Premium members can place up to $750/month fee-free. This setup gives bettors more control over their wagers and the potential to find better value in the market.
Top Drivers to Watch
Here's a closer look at the standout drivers who could shape the outcome of the upcoming race, based on the latest odds and their recent performances.
William Byron: Chasing a Historic Threepeat
At just 28, William Byron is on the verge of making NASCAR history as he aims to become the first driver to win three Daytona 500s in a row. Representing Hendrick Motorsports, Byron claimed victory in both 2024 and 2025. His 2025 win was particularly dramatic, coming in an overtime finish after a late-race wreck wiped out the front-runners. Byron’s ability to stay calm under pressure and thrive in chaotic moments has made him a standout competitor in superspeedway racing [21, 18, 23].
"William Byron stands on the brink of an incredible threepeat after winning in 2024 and 2025."Graham Shaw, Consultant Editor, Oval Insider
For bettors, Byron’s pursuit of this historic milestone makes him an intriguing pick, especially in peer-to-peer betting markets. His odds reflect his strong position heading into the race.
Kyle Busch: Pole Position and Tactical Edge
Kyle Busch grabbed his first-ever Daytona 500 pole position on February 11, 2026, giving him a crucial advantage as the race begins [22, 15]. His odds, ranging between +1300 and +1400, signal cautious optimism from oddsmakers. While Busch boasts an impressive 63 career Cup Series wins, superspeedway success has largely eluded him - his only victory on such a track came in the 2008 Coke Zero 400.
That said, Busch’s recent form is promising. In 2025, he achieved 10 top-10 finishes, including two top-six results at Daytona. If he can steer clear of the usual superspeedway chaos, his starting position and drafting skills could make him a serious contender.
Joey Logano, Denny Hamlin, and Ryan Blaney
Denny Hamlin remains a dominant force at Daytona. With three Daytona 500 wins (2016, 2019, 2020), he’s just one victory shy of joining legends like Richard Petty and Cale Yarborough as a four-time winner. His experience and track record make him a perennial favorite.
Joey Logano is another name to watch. Known for his prowess on superspeedways, Logano won the Daytona 500 in 2015 and has added three Talladega wins to his resume [1, 26]. Starting 3rd in this year’s race, he brings speed and strategy to the table. However, his track record at Daytona is mixed - Logano has failed to finish in 8 of his last 17 starts, highlighting the unpredictable nature of superspeedway racing.
Ryan Blaney, the 2023 Cup Series champion, has yet to secure a Daytona 500 win but has consistently been in the mix. He finished 2nd in 2020 and 4th in 2022. For those looking for a steady and reliable pick, Blaney’s consistent performance on superspeedways makes him a strong option.
Here’s a quick comparison of key stats and odds for these top drivers:
Driver | Daytona 500 Wins | 2026 Best Odds | Key Strength |
Denny Hamlin | 3 (2016, 2019, 2020) | +900 | Chasing 4th win; highly experienced |
Joey Logano | 1 (2015) | +1000 | Starts 3rd; superspeedway specialist |
Ryan Blaney | 0 (Best: 2nd in 2020) | +1000 | 2023 champion; consistently competitive |
Betting Strategies for BettorEdge Users
These strategies are designed to help you make the most of BettorEdge's unique peer-to-peer betting platform. The unpredictable nature of the Daytona 500 makes it a prime event for creative betting approaches that stand out from traditional sportsbooks.
Setting Your Own Odds on Favorites
Take advantage of BettorEdge's flexibility by setting custom odds on favorites like Denny Hamlin or William Byron. For instance, if you think Byron's odds for a historic threepeat are overhyped, you could set your own odds at +1200 and post them on the marketplace. This feature is particularly handy at Daytona, where the race's unpredictable outcomes often make longshot bets more appealing. Keep an eye on the action as it unfolds - Daytona's volatility means odds can shift quickly, so be ready to adjust your strategy mid-race.
Live Betting During the 200-Lap Race
Daytona's 200 laps offer endless opportunities for live betting. Be prepared for pivotal moments like late-race cautions, such as the infamous "Big One" in 2024 that took out 23 cars with just nine laps left. BettorEdge's live betting lets you instantly react to developments, like spotting which drivers are working well together in drafting packs. Flexibility is key - drivers like Joey Logano have a history of early exits, proving that even favorites aren't guaranteed to finish strong. Use the race's twists and turns to refine your bets in real time, and don't underestimate the value of community insights for quick adjustments.
Using BettorEdge Groups for Race Insights
BettorEdge Groups are a goldmine for gathering and sharing race insights. Before and during the race, dive into discussions to see how other bettors are analyzing key moments, like Kyle Busch's pole position performance. Sharing your own thoughts on drivers can help you uncover angles you might have missed, especially when dealing with high-risk picks. Groups are also a great resource for tracking real-time weather updates, as rain can drastically alter strategies at Daytona. By tapping into the collective wisdom of your betting community, you'll be better equipped to spot trends and make smarter bets, particularly with the 2026 field chasing Byron's potential threepeat.
Conclusion
The 68th Daytona 500 is set to begin at 2:30 p.m. ET on Sunday, Feb. 15, 2026, with FOX airing the 200-lap race around the iconic 2.5-mile tri-oval. Denny Hamlin and Ryan Blaney lead the betting odds at +900 to +1100, while William Byron aims for a historic third consecutive win with odds ranging from +1000 to +1600. Starting from pole position for the first time in his career, Kyle Busch faces the challenge of breaking a streak that dates back to Dale Jarrett's pole-to-win performance in 2000. These factors create an exciting backdrop for strategic betting opportunities.
BettorEdge’s peer-to-peer marketplace offers a unique advantage by providing transparent pricing based on actual market demand. Unlike traditional sportsbooks, which rely on fixed odds, BettorEdge reflects the dynamic nature of racing, including shifting track conditions and evolving strategies.
During Daytona’s unpredictable 200 laps, community insights can be a game-changer. BettorEdge Groups allow users to share analysis on key factors like drafting techniques, manufacturer partnerships (including Chevrolet's updated car design), and real-time updates on weather conditions that could influence the race. Features like live betting and instant reactions to pivotal moments - such as the infamous "Big One" - empower bettors to make informed choices.
Whether you’re backing Byron’s quest for a three-peat, taking a chance on longshots like Chase Briscoe at +2000, or hedging your bets with seasoned winners, BettorEdge equips you with transparent pricing and a vibrant community to enhance your wagering experience.
FAQs
What bet types work best for a chaotic Daytona 500?
For a race as unpredictable as the Daytona 500, it's smart to consider flexible betting options. Proposition bets, like guessing the top finishers or the number of caution flags, are a great way to embrace the chaos. If you're feeling bold, long-shot bets on drivers with high odds can pay off big in this kind of race. Another solid choice is futures or matchup bets, where you compare drivers or predict their finishing positions. These types of bets are a practical way to navigate the surprises and crashes that make the Daytona 500 so thrilling.
How does drafting affect who can win at Daytona?
Drafting plays a pivotal role at Daytona. By closely tailing another car, drivers can cut down on aerodynamic drag, enabling them to maintain higher speeds with less strain on their engines. This technique isn't just about speed - it also helps conserve fuel and keeps drivers in the lead pack, which is critical for staying competitive. Those who excel at drafting and building alliances on the track often gain a clear advantage, while drivers who fail to master this skill risk falling out of contention. It's a strategy that can make or break a race.
How do I set custom odds on BettorEdge for the Daytona 500?
Setting custom odds for the Daytona 500 on BettorEdge is straightforward. Here's how you can do it:
Log in to your BettorEdge account. Make sure you're signed in to access all features.
Navigate to the odds section. Look for options like "Create Bet" or similar tools for managing odds.
Choose the Daytona 500 event. Once selected, enter your preferred odds for each driver using the correct format (e.g., +1000).
Save your odds. Finalize your changes to make your custom odds available.
With these steps, you can tailor the odds to your preferences and share them within the BettorEdge community.
