The 68th running of the Daytona 500 saw Tyler Reddick take home his first Cup Series victory, forcing his way to the front on the final lap. This win is a testament to the hard work and dedication of 23XI Racing's drivers and crew members. The team's perseverance in the face of uncertainty has paid off, and their championship dreams are finally within reach.
In its sixth season, 23XI Racing had to navigate a tumultuous offseason, including a court battle with NASCAR that ultimately ended with a settlement agreement granting teams 'evergreen charters'. To take on NASCAR, the team had to forgo signing the 2024 charter agreement and racing as open teams in the interim. This bold move allowed them to maintain their drivers and keep their championship aspirations alive.
Reddick's win is all the more impressive considering his struggles last season, where he failed to secure a victory and was knocked out of the playoffs in the round of 12. However, this year's Daytona 500 marks a significant turnaround for Reddick, who ended the 2023 season with a cloud over his head due to health issues affecting his youngest son.
Reddick's team, led by Michael Jordan, Denny Hamlin, and Front Row Motorsports, worked tirelessly to improve their chances. Riley Herbst, in particular, played a crucial role in pushing Reddick into position for the final lap showdown with Chase Elliott. Herbst's contributions will likely go underappreciated, but his efforts were instrumental in securing the win.
The victory is also a testament to the team's strategy and teamwork. Jordan praised Herbst's performance, acknowledging that he didn't get enough credit for his role in the win. The team's ability to work together and adapt to changing circumstances has been a key factor in their success this season.
Reddick's win marks a significant milestone for 23XI Racing, which will now field a fourth car, the No. 67, with Corey Heim getting his first run of consistent starts in the Cup car. This move demonstrates the team's commitment to expanding their operations and giving more drivers opportunities to shine.
The three full-time 23XI drivers finished in the top ten, with Herbst in eighth and Wallace in tenth. Denny Hamlin, who was involved in several major incidents during the race, holds the distinction of being both a Daytona 500 winner as an owner and a driver, winning in 2016, 2021, and 2022.
For 23XI Racing co-owner Denny Hamlin, this win overshadows his tough day on the track. Despite being involved in several incidents, including a crash with teammate Corey Heim, Hamlin remains focused on the team's success. This win is a testament to the team's resilience and determination.
As 23XI Racing looks to the future, their Daytona 500 victory serves as a reminder that hard work and perseverance can pay off. With this win, Michael Jordan, Denny Hamlin, and the entire team have cemented their place in NASCAR history.
23XI Racing's first Daytona 500 win marks a monumental moment for Michael Jordan, Denny Hamlin, and the team.
