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2mo ago

NASCAR's New Daytona 500 Exemption Rule Divides Drivers

The Open Exemption Provisional allows elite drivers like Helio Castroneves a path into the race, sparking debate over fairness and integrity.

Denny Hamlin (11) leads the field on the last lap of the 2020 Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway.
Joey Logano, driver of the #22 Shell Pennzoil Ford, leads the field to the green flag to start the NASCAR Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 19, 2024 in Daytona Beach, Florida.
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Overview

  • The Daytona 500 will feature 45 entries, the largest field since 2015, with only 40 cars making the final race lineup.
  • NASCAR's new Open Exemption Provisional grants a guaranteed spot to a high-profile driver, with Helio Castroneves benefiting this year.
  • Drivers like Denny Hamlin and Alex Bowman have expressed concerns about the rule's impact on the sport's integrity and fairness.
  • The Duel qualifying races on Thursday will determine the final open spots, with additional drama expected as nine drivers vie for four positions.
  • The 67th Daytona 500 is scheduled for Sunday, February 16, with past champions and new contenders competing for NASCAR's most prestigious title.