Exclusive: Five Extraordinary NASCAR Cup Drivers to Miss the 2026 Daytona 500
In a stunning development ahead of Speedweeks, five prominent NASCAR Cup Series drivers will not compete in the 2026 Daytona 500, sending shockwaves through the garage and fanbase alike.
Sources confirm that former Cup champion Kyle Busch, superspeedway ace Brad Keselowski, fan favorite Chase Elliott, veteran Denny Hamlin, and rising star Tyler Reddick will all miss the season-opening Great American Race due to a combination of injuries, team restructures, and unexpected sponsorship complications.
Busch is reportedly sidelined following an off-season testing crash, while Keselowski continues to recover from a minor surgical procedure. Elliott and Hamlin are said to be navigating contractual transitions tied to major team realignments for 2026. Reddick’s absence appears linked to sponsorship issues after a primary backer withdrew late last month.
The Daytona 500 has long been defined by star power and dramatic storylines, and the absence of these five headline names dramatically reshapes the competitive landscape. Their withdrawals open the door for emerging talents and underdog teams to seize one of NASCAR’s most prestigious trophies.
NASCAR officials have not yet issued a formal statement, but an announcement is expected later this week as teams finalize entry lists for the 68th running of the iconic race.
