Tyler Reddick Claims Dramatic Daytona 500 Victory for Michael Jordan Racing Team

Tyler Reddick etched his name in NASCAR history Sunday afternoon, capturing the 2026 Daytona 500 in dramatic fashion at Daytona International Speedway. Driving the #45 car for Michael Jordan's 23XI Racing team, Reddick pulled off a final-lap masterpiece that would make his basketball legend boss proud.

The 500-mile race lived up to its reputation for unpredictability, with multiple lead changes and heart-stopping moments throughout the afternoon. But it was the final lap that provided the most drama, as Reddick found himself in position to make a race-winning move when it mattered most.

"Some things just went my way on that final lap," Reddick said in victory lane, still processing the magnitude of his triumph. "This is the biggest race in NASCAR, and to do it for Michael Jordan and the entire 23XI Racing organization makes it even more special."

Ricky Stenhouse Jr. finished second, just 0.308 seconds behind Reddick, followed by Joey Logano in third. The tight finish exemplified the competitive nature of modern NASCAR, where races are often decided by inches rather than seconds. Chase Elliott and Brad Keselowski rounded out the top five in what many are calling one of the most thrilling Daytona 500s in recent memory.

For Michael Jordan, who co-owns 23XI Racing with NASCAR veteran Denny Hamlin, the victory represents the organization's biggest triumph since entering the sport. Jordan's competitive spirit and winning mentality have clearly translated from the basketball court to the racetrack, with Reddick's clutch performance mirroring the kind of game-winning shots that made Jordan legendary.

The victory caps off an impressive weekend for Reddick, who showed speed throughout practice sessions and qualifying. His ability to position himself perfectly for the final-lap drama demonstrated the kind of racecraft that separates good drivers from great ones. As confetti fell in victory lane, it was clear that this Daytona 500 will be remembered as one of Reddick's career-defining moments and a breakthrough win for Jordan's racing venture.