Daytona 500 goes to Tyler Reddick

Tyler Reddick arrived at Daytona with more on his mind than just the start of a new NASCAR season. Between chasing his energetic infant son around a Disney cruise and navigating tight quarters inside a motorhome, the days leading into the Daytona 500 were a whirlwind for the 23XI Racing driver.

But on Sunday, everything aligned. Reddick powered through a last‑lap wreck at Daytona International Speedway to snap a 38‑race winless streak and claim his first Daytona 500 victory — a milestone made even more meaningful because his entire family was there to experience it.

A Victory Lane Celebration Filled With Family

Reddick’s 6‑year‑old son climbed onto the roof of the No. 45 Toyota as confetti rained down, while his wife joined him moments later with their youngest son, Rookie, in her arms. The family posed together in front of the Harley J. Earl Trophy, a moment Reddick admitted hit him harder than any win before.

This Daytona 500 wasn’t just a career breakthrough. It was a celebration of resilience.

Rookie, who turns nine months old later this month, spent part of last year battling serious medical complications. Doctors discovered a tumor in his chest that affected his heart and restricted blood flow, ultimately requiring the removal of one of his kidneys. After months of uncertainty, Rookie’s health has improved — and he was able to share in his father’s biggest racing moment.

Michael Jordan Joins the Celebration

Waiting for Reddick in Victory Lane was team co‑owner and NBA legend Michael Jordan. The two embraced before lifting the trophy together, a symbolic moment for a driver who joined 23XI Racing in 2023 with high expectations.

Reddick said the belief Jordan and co‑owner Denny Hamlin placed in him has fueled his drive to deliver results.

“When people like that tell you you’re their first pick, it means something,” Reddick said. “It’s special to be able to deliver for them.”

A Rebound After a Challenging 2025 Season

Reddick’s 2025 campaign was filled with frustration and difficult conversations inside the organization. Despite making the playoffs in his first two seasons with 23XI and winning multiple races in 2023 and 2024, last year tested both his confidence and the team’s chemistry.

But the offseason reset worked. Reddick led only one lap on Sunday — the one that mattered — becoming the 25th different driver to lead a lap in the race, a new Daytona 500 record.

Crew chief Billy Scott praised Reddick’s renewed focus and commitment entering 2026, calling the win a product of collective improvement rather than frustration.

A Fresh Start and a New Outlook

For Reddick, the Daytona 500 victory represents more than a trophy. It marks a rejuvenated start to the season, a validation of the team’s belief in him, and a moment of joy for a family that endured a difficult year.

“Rookie loves all the noise and chaos,” Reddick said with a smile. “He’s wild, just like his dad.”