The 2026 Daytona 24 Hours showcased a diverse range of standout drivers, each leaving their mark on the race despite the challenging conditions. Here's a closer look at some of the key performers:
- Felipe Nasr
The #7 Porsche Penske Motorsport driver claimed his third consecutive Daytona 24 Hours victory, showcasing exceptional skill and composure during the final stint. Nasr's performance was particularly impressive, as he fended off relentless pressure from Jack Aitken without putting a foot wrong.
- Laurin Heinrich
A GT graduate and just 24 years old, Heinrich displayed remarkable composure under pressure. He consistently delivered among the fastest times on track while avoiding costly mistakes. This was his second race at the wheel of the 963, and he's already making waves in endurance racing.
- Jack Aitken
Aitken threw everything at Nasr in the closing stages, showcasing the potential of Cadillac's 2026-spec V-Series.R. While the Porsche proved too quick, Aitken's performance solidified his status as the new standard-bearer for Action Express Racing.
- Alex Palou
A versatile driver who can handle any car, Palou completed an impressive 169 laps in the Acura Meyer Shank Racing w/ Curb Agajanian #93 ARX-06. His performance was on par with his previous year's efforts in the same car and the Cadillac V-Series.R.
- Alex Quinn
Quinn's appointment as Peugeot's Hypercar test and reserve driver raised eyebrows, but his performance at Daytona silenced critics. He delivered a crucial final stint, holding off the 2025 champion Tom Dillmann to secure victory for Algarve Pro Racing.
- Tom Dillmann
Despite his impressive IMSA title, Le Mans 24 Hours victory, and ELMS runner-up finishes, Dillmann's performance at Daytona didn't change perceptions. He logged the most mileage among LMP2 drivers, showcasing his endurance prowess.
- Maro Engel
Engel, a Monaco-based driver, played a pivotal role in securing a GTD Pro finish for the #75 75 Express Mercedes-AMG GT3. His performance, despite finishing just 2.2 seconds behind the winner, highlights his underrated status in the GT paddock.
- Philip Ellis
Ellis, a relatively unknown driver, delivered a standout performance in the #57 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3. His defense against Nicki Thiim, a global benchmark in GT racing, was a key moment in Winward Racing's third-class victory at Daytona.
