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Logano and Elliott Secure Daytona 500 Spots Amid Drama

2/13/2026

24 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Logano and Elliott Triumph

Joey Logano won Duel 1, earning a spot in the 2026 Daytona 500.
Chase Elliott won Duel 2, which was caution-free.
Casey Mears and Anthony Alfredo earned the final Daytona 500 transfer spots, with Kyle Busch and Chase Briscoe starting on the front row.
Corey LaJoie and Chandler Smith missed the Daytona 500 after a last-lap crash, with the race scheduled for February 15.

Summary

Gragson Disqualified Mid-Qualifying

Noah Gragson, NASCAR driver, was disqualified during Daytona 500 qualifying for placing hands outside the window under NASCAR's new rule.
His time was invalidated after he tried to deflect air with his hands, a move he forgot was prohibited.
Gragson expressed regret and remained optimistic, noting his best finishes often come from starting farther back.
Two Duel races await to regain track position, while Chase Briscoe joked about the mishap.

History

Historical Context

In 2019, NASCAR introduced the "Stage Racing" format, enhancing competition among drivers like Joey Logano and Chase Elliott. By 2023, stricter regulations, including a ban on drivers placing hands outside the window during qualifying, reflected ongoing safety concerns. The disqualification of Noah Gragson underscores NASCAR's commitment to fairness and safety, shaping future race strategies and outcomes.

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Logano and Elliott Triumph

Joey Logano won Duel 1, earning a spot in the 2026 Daytona 500.
Chase Elliott won Duel 2, which was caution-free.
Casey Mears and Anthony Alfredo earned the final Daytona 500 transfer spots, with Kyle Busch and Chase Briscoe starting on the front row.
Corey LaJoie and Chandler Smith missed the Daytona 500 after a last-lap crash, with the race scheduled for February 15.

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