Ryan Preece Claims Daytona Victory, Secures Chase Spot

Ryan Preece secured his first-ever points-paying victory in the NASCAR Cup Series at Saturday’s Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona International Speedway, earning him a spot in the Chase for the Championship.

Preece’s Dramatic Win

The No. 60 Spire Motorsports driver started from the second row and battled with teammate Chris Buescher in Stage 1, ultimately wrecking. Shane van Gisbergen won the stage, further complicating Preece’s chances. However, Preece rallied in the final lap, capitalizing on wrecks by Zane Smith and Tyler Reddick to cross the finish line first in overtime.

Season Highlights and Contract Extension

Preece began the season with a victory at the Clash and had several top-10 finishes throughout the regular season, keeping his Chase hopes alive. Sunday’s win marks his first top-5 finish this season and his first postseason appearance in seven years. Team owner Brad Keselowski exercised his option on Preece, extending his contract through 2027.

Post-Race Reflections

"I’m just speechless right now," Preece stated after the race. "Those guys, that 60 group, we’re fighters. When you put our back against the wall, we swing hard. Thank you to RFK, Jack Roush, the Fenway Group. Brad Keselowski." The victory was secured with limited fuel, and Spire Motorsports finished just 0.024 seconds behind Preece.