NASCAR has confirmed that an iconic tradition will continue in February at the Daytona 500.
The 2026 edition of 'The Great American Race' is set to take place on February 15, kicking off the Cup Series season a fortnight after The Clash exhibition at Bowman Gray Stadium.
Despite being the season opener, the Daytona 500 is the biggest race of the season, and therefore, it is also the biggest spectacle.
NASCAR has now revealed that the spectacle will include the iconic United States Air Force Thunderbirds flyover, with F-16 fighter jets set to feature in the skies above Daytona International Speedway pre-race.
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Daytona President: Flyover gives you chills
As part of the demonstration, the Thunderbirds will perform their signature 'Delta' formation, which sees them fly as close as 18 inches apart at times.
This will be the 16th consecutive Daytona 500 that the Thunderbirds have done the flyover, and the 17th in total.
Speaking as part of the official press release confirming the flyover, Frank Kelleher, Daytona International Speedway President, issued the following statement, hailing the tradition.
“The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds flyover is one of the best traditions in all of sports and never fails to give you full body chills,” said Kelleher.
“It’s an honor to have them represent The Great American Race every year and their performance will fill the venue with pure American energy before we watch the green flag fly in the 68th running of the DAYTONA 500.”
No better way to start the year
Elsewhere, Lt Col Alexander Prevendar, Thunderbird 1, Commander/Leader added: “I can’t think of a better way to kickstart our 2026 season.
“We’re honored to be a part of this day that inspires the very best of speed, precision, and patriotism.”
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