Brad Keselowski: Powerhouse at the Daytona 500
Brad Keselowski
In the Daytona 500, expect Brad Keselowski to be a significant player, aiming to capture his first Daytona 500 trophy. Keselowski has a proven track record at big superspeedways, finishing second in both Talladega races last year and demonstrating dominant draft skills. Overall, his results outside of Daytona 500 were impressive, ending the season with a 4th place average finish.
Keselowski’s Daytona track history is equally notable. He secured a summer victory in 2016 and has been consistently strong in recent years. Last summer’s finish, despite an 8th place result, showcased his potential. Despite crashing in the summer and falling to 33rd in the Daytona 500, Keselowski demonstrated clear championship speed.
His 2023 performance was even more compelling. He won Stage #2, led 6 laps, and finished second overall. However, a crash in overtime relegated him to 22nd. Keselowski’s consistency continued in 2022, leading 31 laps in the summer and nearly dominating with 67 laps led in the Daytona 500 before a crash cost him a potentially dominant finish.
Kyle Busch: A Daytona 500 Contender?
Kyle Busch
Kyle Busch, aiming for his first Daytona 500 win in 20 attempts, has shown he is one of the best at Daytona. He has tied for the top Next Gen average finish (9.3) and held the best average running position and Driver Rating in this era. Overall, his big superspeedway statistics speak for themselves, with a 12.6 average finish, the top running position, and the top Driver Rating.
Busch’s Daytona performances have been consistently strong. Last summer, he nearly won, finishing second after making poor lane decisions. Leading 8 laps and earning the third-best Driver Rating, Busch’s performance was a clear indication of his talent. In the 2023 Daytona 500, despite leading 12 laps and having a remarkable performance, he finished 12th.
Bushch’s 2023 summer race resulted in a 7th place finish, with grid positions and ratings to match. In the 500 that year, he narrowly missed winning after being shuffled out of the lead in overtime. His 10th and 6th place finishes in 2022 are also strong indicators of his capability. Busch’s Daytona 500 career remains one of the most decorated among active drivers, making him a top choice.
Christopher Bell: Rising Star at Daytona
Christopher Bell
Christopher Bell is quickly becoming one of the elite drivers at Daytona. Since 2023, he has maintained the top average finish (6.3) and won his Duel 150 in 2023. His 2024 season at big superspeedways, despite a spring Talladega crash, was exceptional, with a 4th place average finish without the incidents.
Bell’s performances have been highly consistent. In the 2024 summer race, he finished third, leading 22 laps, and securing the third-best Driver Rating. In February, he again finished third, leading 22 laps, and achieving the sixth-best average running position. His Duel 150 victory further underscored his capabilities.
Bell faced a setback in the summer 2023 race, finishing first but crashing during the final lap due to a collision with Gibbs. However, his Daytona 500 finish that year was third, leading 20 laps, and solidifying his place as one of the most talented drivers at the Daytona track.
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