Daytona 500 Betting Odds Top Contenders, Long Shots, and Surprising Drivers to Watch
The Daytona 500, NASCAR’s premier race, is just around the corner, and fans are already buzzing with excitement. The initial Daytona 500 odds are in, and Brad Keselowski, Joey Logano, Kyle Busch, and Ryan Blaney lead the pack with +1100 odds. As qualifying races and practice sessions unfold, these odds could shift drastically.
Qualifying Sessions and Practice Impact on Daytona 500 Odds
Leading up to the big race, drivers will have three practice sessions, each lasting nearly an hour, and a crucial 60-lap, 150-mile race to determine the starting lineup for Sunday’s Daytona 500. It’s worth noting that some of the drivers on the odds board might not even make it to the race. As the final green flag approaches, adjustments to the odds are inevitable. Kyle Larson, despite strong performances in other races, is yet to secure a win at Daytona, which could make his odds fluctuate based on performance during practice.
Top Favorites to Win Daytona 500: A Closer Look
At +1300, several seasoned drivers, including Denny Hamlin, Kyle Larson, Chase Elliott, and William Byron, are also in the hunt. Notably, Denny Hamlin stands out with three Daytona 500 wins. His track record makes him a formidable contender. On the other hand, Kyle Larson’s lack of a Daytona win—he’s 0-for-21, including 0-for-11 in the Daytona 500—raises questions. The law of averages could play a role, but the pressure is mounting for Larson to finally secure his first Daytona victory.
Second Wave of Daytona 500 Favorites: Rising Stars and Past Winners
Among the second wave of Daytona 500 contenders, Bubba Wallace, Chris Buescher, Christopher Bell, Austin Cindric, and Todd Gilliland have odds ranging from +2000 to +2250. Bubba Wallace has shown impressive performances on plate-race tracks, while Cindric, McDowell, and Stenhouse bring in previous Daytona 500 wins, making this group particularly dangerous. There’s a strong chance that the winner could emerge from this talented bunch, with Bubba Wallace ready to make his mark.
Dark Horses: Daytona 500 Long Shots Who Could Surprise
In the world of racing, it’s always wise to keep an eye on the long shots. Drivers like Riley Herbst, Helio Castroneves, Ty Dillon, and Erik Jones—with odds ranging from +5000 to +6000—are always a threat, especially at Daytona, where anything can happen. Erik Jones, a past winner at Daytona, is one to watch. AJ Allmendinger, known for his road-course prowess, may also surprise in the pack.
Jimmie Johnson: The Veteran’s Long Shot
At +10000, Jimmie Johnson is the ultimate long shot. While his entry into the race isn’t guaranteed, should he make the field, his odds are expected to drop. Historically, Johnson has had a stellar career, and at these odds, he’s worth a few bucks as a high-risk, high-reward pick. Alongside him, Anthony Alfredo and Cody Ware—both at +5000—offer intriguing potential for underdog victories. Alfredo’s team, Beard Motorsports, has posted strong finishes at Daytona in the past, further adding to his appeal.
Conclusion: The Daytona 500 Is Anyone’s Race
As we inch closer to race day, the odds are set, but they are far from final. The Daytona 500 is known for its unpredictability, and every year brings fresh surprises. Whether it’s a past champion like Hamlin or a rising star like Wallace, the race is anyone’s to win. Stay tuned for more updates as drivers prepare for their shot at immortality in NASCAR’s most celebrated race. Bet wisely—the stakes have never been higher.
