While the pole position is a significant honor and a major boost for the Richard Childress Racing organization, the ultimate goal remains the Harley J. Earl Trophy. History has shown that while starting first is a boost, surviving 500 miles of pack racing at Daytona International Speedway is a different challenge entirely.
Joining Busch on the prestigious front row is , who locked in the second-fastest time. Unlike the rest of the field, whose starting positions were determined by the Bluegreen Vacations Duels, the front row starters had their positions guaranteed based on their single-car qualifying speeds on February 11, 2026. Manufacturer 1 (Pole) Kyle Busch Richard Childress Racing 2 Chase Briscoe Joe Gibbs Racing Top Qualifying Performers
The qualifying session wasn't without drama. saw his qualifying time disallowed after NASCAR officials caught him using his hand to deflect air, an illegal attempt to gain an aerodynamic advantage. Meanwhile, veterans like Jimmie Johnson entered the weekend with a guaranteed spot in the field via the Open Exemption Provisional (OEP).
: A three-time Daytona 500 winner, Hamlin showed strong speed in 4th (49.100s).
Kyle Busch Ends the Curse: Secures Pole Position for 2026 Daytona 500
: Impressed many by rounding out the top five for 23XI Racing (49.147s).
While the pole position is a significant honor and a major boost for the Richard Childress Racing organization, the ultimate goal remains the Harley J. Earl Trophy. History has shown that while starting first is a boost, surviving 500 miles of pack racing at Daytona International Speedway is a different challenge entirely.
Joining Busch on the prestigious front row is , who locked in the second-fastest time. Unlike the rest of the field, whose starting positions were determined by the Bluegreen Vacations Duels, the front row starters had their positions guaranteed based on their single-car qualifying speeds on February 11, 2026. Manufacturer 1 (Pole) Kyle Busch Richard Childress Racing 2 Chase Briscoe Joe Gibbs Racing Top Qualifying Performers
The qualifying session wasn't without drama. saw his qualifying time disallowed after NASCAR officials caught him using his hand to deflect air, an illegal attempt to gain an aerodynamic advantage. Meanwhile, veterans like Jimmie Johnson entered the weekend with a guaranteed spot in the field via the Open Exemption Provisional (OEP).
: A three-time Daytona 500 winner, Hamlin showed strong speed in 4th (49.100s).
Kyle Busch Ends the Curse: Secures Pole Position for 2026 Daytona 500
: Impressed many by rounding out the top five for 23XI Racing (49.147s).
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