Getty
Daytona International Speedway announced the grand marshal for this year’s Daytona 500.
NASCAR released its official trailer for the 2026 season titled “America, Start Your Engines” just days before Speedweeks.
Former NFL player Marshawn Lynch appears alongside several Cup Series drivers, including Bubba Wallace, Ryan Blaney, Ross Chastain, Kyle Larson, Carson Hocevar, and YouTuber Cleetus McFarland. The trailer shows cars sliding through smoke, tight pack racing at Daytona International Speedway, and bright explosions that frame the action.
NASCAR shared the promo across its digital platforms as part of its push toward the new season. The release quickly drew attention online and sparked conversation among fans, media members, and drivers as anticipation builds for the opening races.
Full throttle for a damn good time.
America, start your engines! pic.twitter.com/kWh8xpTNhw
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) February 9, 2026
2026 NASCAR Official Trailer draws reaction from media and fans
The trailer uses Scott Eastwood’s voice to guide viewers through fast race clips and staged action scenes. Lynch shares screen time with Wallace in several moments, creating a crossover between football and racing audiences. The production relies on heavy engine sounds, drifting shots, and close racing to highlight speed and contact.
Motorsports journalist Jeff Gluck reacted to the video, writing, “NASCAR has struggled to figure out who it wants to be in recent years. This spot makes it appear like that problem is solve.”
Author and racing historian Brock Beard also praised the promo, stating, “This was phenomenal – way to bring in the sport’s natural excitement and the driver’s personalities!”
Another fan, Kurt Weland, focused on the commercial’s tone. “This is the energy and excitement that the sport needs to brand. Great promo!!! Looking forward to Daytona and more!”
A fan who goes by Mojo shared a similar view, posting, “This is the best ad NASCAR has had in years. Feels like this sport is finally trying to figure out how to get back to being what it’s supposed to be. Get rid of stages next, and you might really be on to something.”
The reactions appeared on social media shortly after the trailer debuted, adding momentum to the season opener’s buildup.
Star drivers help lead the promotion
Several well-known drivers appear throughout the trailer. Ross Chastain features prominently as well. He gained wide attention for his “Hail Melon” wall ride during the 2022 playoffs, a move that secured his place in the Championship 4.
Kyle Larson appears with his wife, Katelyn, in a short personal moment. Larson has won across multiple racing disciplines, including dirt racing, which supports his reputation as a versatile driver.
Wallace, who drives for 23XI Racing, remains the first Black full-time Cup Series driver since 1971. His presence places one of the sport’s most recognizable competitors at the center of the campaign.
Cleetus McFarland brings a large digital following into the mix. The YouTuber built his audience through automotive videos focused on burnouts, custom builds, and racing content.
Daytona 500 sets the stage for the new season
The Daytona 500 will run for the 68th time this year. First held in 1959, the race stands as one of the most recognized events on the NASCAR calendar.
Daytona International Speedway measures 2.5 miles and requires drivers to manage drafting lines, pit strategy, and heavy traffic that often runs inches apart. Large wrecks and close finishes have shaped many past editions of the race.
Veterans and rookies will share the track in the season-opening test, while the newly released trailer signals the return of NASCAR competition.
Dogli Wilberforce is a sports writer who covers NASCAR, Formula 1 and IndyCar Series for Heavy Sports. With bylines at Total Apex Sports and Last Word on Sports, Wilberforce has built a reputation for delivering timely, engaging coverage that blends sharp analysis with accessible storytelling. Wilberforce has covered everything from major football transfers to fight-night drama, bringing readers the insight and context behind the headlines. More about Dogli Wilberforce
More Heavy on NASCAR
Loading more stories