Daytona Race Decides Final NASCAR Playoff Spots

The 2025 NASCAR Cup Series regular-season finale, the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona International Speedway, is pivotal for drivers vying for the last playoff spots. With 40 drivers entered and 16 making the playoffs, those below the cutoff, including Alex Bowman and Tyler Reddick, must win to secure a playoff berth, as no points scenario can help them advance otherwise. The race promises aggressive competition, especially among RFK Racing teammates, who are all in must-win situations, and notable contenders like Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Austin Dillon, both previous Daytona winners, are considered potential spoilers. Betting favorites include Joey Logano, Ryan Blaney, Austin Cindric, and Chase Elliott, with Logano leading the odds at +1000 due to his strong Daytona history. The event also features entertainment highlights, including WWE Hall of Famer Rey Mysterio as grand marshal and musician Flau’jae Johnson as the honorary starter. Fans can expect a high-stakes, high-speed showdown as drivers race for their playoff lives on the iconic high-banked track.