Ryan Preece wins Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona

Ryan Preece secured a victory for RFK Racing in the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona International Speedway, marking the team’s first Cup win of the 2026 season. The race served as a significant test for NASCAR’s new superspeedway package, which featured a smaller four-inch spoiler and reduced engine output from 510 to 465 horsepower.

While the race statistics showed 41 lead changes among 22 different leaders, driver feedback on the technical changes was divided. Some drivers, such as Chase Briscoe and Denny Hamlin, reported improved racing, while others, including Brad Keselowski and Christopher Bell, stated they could not discern a difference in how the cars handled.

Following his win, Preece is preparing for the Chase opener at Darlington Raceway. Despite entering the championship playoffs as the lowest seed, Preece expressed confidence in his team's momentum and his ability to compete as an underdog.