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Ryan Preece Wins Daytona, Secures Final NASCAR Chase Spot

8/30/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Ryan Preece won the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona, securing the final NASCAR Chase spot.
It was Preece’s first Cup Series victory in his 249th career start.
The win gave Preece a 20-point bonus, leaving him 16 points ahead of van Gisbergen.
Shane van Gisbergen finished 27th after a fuel stop, missing the Chase by 16 points.

History

Historical Context

Since NASCAR introduced the Chase in 2004—resetting the top ten to roughly 5,050 points—its playoff format has been expanded and reshaped, notably to 12 drivers in 2007 and 16 in 2014. In 2024, Ryan Preece earned a 20-point bonus at Daytona, clinching the official final Chase spot over Shane van Gisbergen.

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Story summary

Ryan Preece won the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona, securing the final NASCAR Chase spot.
It was Preece’s first Cup Series victory in his 249th career start.
The win gave Preece a 20-point bonus, leaving him 16 points ahead of van Gisbergen.
Shane van Gisbergen finished 27th after a fuel stop, missing the Chase by 16 points.

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