The Daytona 500, dubbed “The Great American Race,” is the pinnacle of NASCAR’s Cup Series calendar. With only 40 spots on the grid and 36 locked in by chartered entries, the battle for the final four open slots promises to be fierce in 2025. Fans are already buzzing, thanks to the surprise announcement that veteran driver Mike Wallace will attempt a comeback at age 65. But Wallace’s bold move is just one piece of a larger story.

Who else might secure a coveted spot in the starting lineup? And what are the odds that some big names—or surprising rookies—could miss the cut? Let’s dive in.

The confirmed and likely entries: A crowded field emerging

As of now, three non-chartered teams have confirmed their intentions to compete for one of the four open slots. These include MBM Motorsports with Mike Wallace in the No. 66 Ford, NY Racing with J.J. Yeley piloting the No. 44 Chevrolet, and Live Fast Motorsports fielding B.J. McLeod in the No. 78 Chevrolet.

These entries alone would make for a competitive qualifying session, but the field is likely to grow. Legacy Motor Club is expected to enter the No. 84 Toyota for co-owner Jimmie Johnson, who has become a staple wildcard contender in recent years. Beard Motorsports, a Daytona 500 regular since 2017, is also likely to field the No. 62 Chevrolet.

Martin Truex Jr., fresh off his retirement announcement at the end of 2024, has confirmed he intends to compete in the 500. While his team remains unconfirmed, the allure of Daytona suggests he will be in a competitive ride, potentially a Toyota entry.

Other potential entries include the No. 33 Chevrolet from Richard Childress Racing, and the No. 15 Ford from Rick Ware Racing (which recently leased its charter to RFK Racing).

If all these entries materialize, we could see up to 10 cars competing for just four spots—a scenario that would leave multiple high-profile drivers watching the race from the sidelines.

Who’s in and who’s out?

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With the confirmed and speculative entries shaping up, each driver’s chances hinge on their equipment, experience, and recent performance.

Mike Wallace and MBM Motorsports

Wallace’s last Daytona 500 attempt was in 2015, where he failed to qualify. However, he brings a wealth of experience with over 800 NASCAR starts across three series. At 65, age and time away from top-tier competition may work against him, but his emotional motivation following his wife’s passing could inspire a spirited performance. MBM Motorsports, known for punching above its weight, will rely heavily on its lease with Roush-Yates Engines to field a competitive car. “2025 brings fresh excitement, starting with this Daytona 500 announcement. They say you have to be in it to win it, and we are rolling into Daytona,” said Wallace on his return.

Jimmie Johnson and Legacy Motor Club

Jimmie Johnson’s return to the Daytona 500 in 2024 ended in disappointment after a mid-pack performance, but his seven championships and mastery of superspeedways cannot be overlooked. In the No. 84 Toyota, he will likely be among the strongest wildcard entries, assuming Legacy Motor Club can provide him with a competitive machine. Johnson is a two-time Daytona 500 winner, with his first win in 2006 and last win coming in 2013.

Beard Motorsports and the No. 62 Chevrolet

Beard Motorsports has a strong record of success at Daytona, with the late Brendan Gaughan famously scoring top-10 finishes in multiple attempts. Their commitment to superspeedway racing and a potential partnership with a talented driver make this entry one to watch.

Martin Truex Jr.

Martin Truex Jr.’s decision to compete in the Daytona 500 despite retiring from full-time competition is intriguing. While Truex has historically struggled at superspeedways, his championship pedigree and potential access to top-tier Toyota equipment could make him a sleeper pick. “Racing wise, I’m gonna do Daytona 500 and then run some Xfinity cars,” Truex Jr. said at the NASCAR Awards in November 2024. While his ride with Toyota is likely, the team is still he is riding for is still unconfirmed. Truex Jr. added, “JGR’s doing it somehow, we’ll see.” MTJ drove for Joe Gibbs’ team from 2019 to 2024 and would be hoping they get him a seat for the upcoming Daytona 500.

Others to Watch

• Richard Childress Racing (No. 33 Chevrolet): RCR has deep resources and expertise at Daytona. If they field this entry, it could be a dark horse contender.
• Rick Ware Racing (No. 15 Ford): Historically a backmarker team, RWR’s partnership with RFK Racing could elevate its chances.

Daytona 500 qualifying is unlike any other race. Two spots are awarded based on single-car qualifying speeds, while the remaining two go to the highest finishers in the Duel qualifying races who aren’t already locked in. This unique format often rewards experience and savvy, putting pressure on drivers to deliver in high-stakes situations.

For drivers like Wallace, whose team lacks the resources of powerhouse operations, qualifying will require a mix of strategy, drafting help, and a little bit of luck. Meanwhile, veterans like Johnson and Truex may rely on their racecraft and equipment advantages to secure a spot.

A Daytona 500 to remember?

With a field as stacked as this, the 2025 Daytona 500 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. From Mike Wallace’s emotional comeback to the potential return of legends like Jimmie Johnson and Martin Truex Jr., the storylines are endless. But with only 40 spots available, heartbreak is inevitable.

Who will rise to the occasion, and who will fall short? The answer awaits on the high banks of Daytona.