Daytona International Speedway Announces ‘America 250 Florida Duel’

The pair of duel races leading up to the 2026 Daytona 500 will be called the America 250 Florida Duel at Daytona, according to an announcement on Monday. The renaming comes as part of a sponsorship deal between Daytona International Speedway and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT).  “It’s an honor to welcome the Florida Department of Transportation as our new sponsor for the America 250 Florida Duel at Daytona to help kick off Speedweeks Presented by AdventHealth in 2026,” said Daytona International Speedway President Frank Kelleher. “This sponsorship is a commitment to FDOT’s continued efforts to help keep Volusia County’s roadways safe. As we move forward on the shared journey toward a brighter future in Florida, there’s no better place to celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence than at The World Center of Racing.” The renaming of The Duel at Daytona, as the race is usually known, coincides with the 250th anniversary of the signing of the United States Declaration of Independence. The races will take place on Thursday, February 12th just three days before the 68th running of the Daytona 500. The outcome of the Duel races will determine the Daytona 500’s starting lineup, with the exception of the front two starting spots. “As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding, the America 250 Florida Duel at Daytona is an ideal opportunity to honor Florida’s storied history,” added FDOT Secretary Jared W. Perdue. “FDOT is proud to partner with Daytona International Speedway to celebrate the thrill of racing while keeping our focus on safety where it matters most.” As part of the partnership between FDOT and Daytona International Speedway, there will be FDOT representatives on-hand during the race weekend providing educational opportunities about roadway safety in Florida.