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, it’s the performance of Hendrick Motorsports’ trio—Alex Bowman, Kyle Larson, and Chase Elliott—that’s sparking debates. Did they have an edge, or was it pure skill? Let’s dive in.
After the first day of Speedweek at Daytona International Speedway, the stage is set for Sunday’s main event. Qualifying, which took place on Wednesday, consisted of two rounds. The top 10 drivers from the first round advanced to battle for the pole, and Hendrick Motorsports made a statement by placing three drivers in the final showdown. Bowman clocked the sixth-fastest lap at 49.152 seconds, with Larson hot on his heels at 49.158. Elliott secured the ninth spot with a time of 49.22. But this is the part most people miss: the starting grid for the Daytona 500 isn’t finalized until after Thursday’s Duel at Daytona races, which determine the rest of the field beyond the front row.
Here’s how it works: the Duel races are split into two groups, with the first race setting the odd-numbered starting spots and the second race filling the even-numbered positions. A total of 41 cars will make the cut, with four being eliminated on Thursday night. This unique format adds an extra layer of strategy and excitement, as drivers must navigate not just speed but also race dynamics to secure their spot.
Now, let’s talk controversy. Some fans are questioning whether Hendrick Motorsports’ strong showing in qualifying is a sign of things to come or just a one-off performance. And what about the Duel races? Could they shake up the grid in unexpected ways? We want to hear from you—do you think Hendrick’s drivers have what it takes to dominate, or will other teams rise to the challenge? Sound off in the comments!
Below is the full breakdown of Wednesday’s qualifying results, followed by the starting lineups for the Duel races. For those wondering where to catch all the action, we’ve included the TV schedule for the upcoming days. Buckle up—this is going to be one wild ride!
Wednesday’s Qualifying Results:
1. Kyle Busch, No. 8, 49.006
2. Chase Briscoe, No. 19, 49.022
3. Ryan Preece, No. 60, 49.061
4. Denny Hamlin, No. 11, 49.1
5. Corey Heim, No. 67, 49.148
6. Alex Bowman, No. 48 Ally Chevrolet, 49.152
7. Kyle Larson, No. 5 HendrickCars.com Chevrolet, 49.158
8. Chris Buescher, No. 17, 49.184
9. Chase Elliott, No. 9 NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet, 49.22
10. Joey Logano, No. 22, 49.275
...
(Full list continues as in the original)
Duel at Daytona Starting Lineups:
Duel 1:
1. Kyle Busch, No. 8
2. Ryan Preece, No. 60
...
(Full list continues as in the original)
Duel 2:
1. Chase Briscoe, No. 19
2. Denny Hamlin, No. 11
...
(Full list continues as in the original)
TV Schedule:
Thursday, Feb. 12
- 4 p.m. – ARCA Series practice, no TV
- 5 p.m. – CRAFTSMAN Truck Series practice, FS1
- 7 p.m. – Cup Series, Duel at Daytona 1, FS1
- 8:45 p.m. (approx.) – Cup Series, Duel at Daytona 2, FS1
Friday, Feb. 13
- 1:30 p.m. – ARCA Series qualifying, no TV
- 3 p.m. – CRAFTSMAN Truck Series qualifying, FS1
- 4:30 p.m. – NOAPS practice, CW
- 5:35 p.m. – Cup Series practice, FS1
- 7:30 p.m. – CRAFTSMAN Truck Series race, FS1
Saturday, Feb. 14
- 10 a.m. – NOAPS practice, CW
- Noon – ARCA Series race, FOX
- 3 p.m. – Cup Series practice, FS1
- 5 p.m. – NOAPS race, CW
Sunday, Feb. 15
- 2:30 p.m. – Cup Series, DAYTONA 500, FOX
So, what’s your take? Is this Hendrick’s year to dominate, or will the Duels throw a wrench in their plans? Let the debate begin!
