Countdown to Daytona 2026 - 10 Days

By Adam Carabine

Counting down the final 30 days to the 2026 Daytona 500, we are looking at last year's Top 30 drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series. Today's driver: Ross Chastain

Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images

No. 1 Car – Trackhouse Racing

2025 Stats

Standings	10th
Wins	1
Points	2,267
Stage Points	109
Stage Wins	2
Laps Led	80
Lead Lap Finishes	29
Average Finish	15.8
DNFs	4
Races since last win	23

What Does Success Look Like in 2026?

Ross Chastain is a driver who has always ridden the line of being competitive and overly aggressive, and in recent years it does seem like he’s lost some of his swagger.  Success for Ross Chastain might not just be a win in 2026, though that’s important for the 1 team.  I’d like to see Chastain win, make The Chase, and do so in a way that helps him rediscover that aggression, without crossing the line.

Best-Case Scenario in 2026?

I’m not sure I’m ready to have Ross Chastain as a championship pick yet, but I’ll say best-case scenario for him is to be in the running for the Championship with two races to go.  The new Chase format means we won’t have a winner-takes-all final race at Homestead, but a collection of 10 races leading to the finale.  I think the best Chastain can hope for is to be within striking distance while entering the second-to-last race, at Martinsville.

Most Likely Outcome in 2026?

Ross Chastain has the capability to be a Top 5 driver in the sport, but I think more realistically he will finish within the Top 10. 

Bold Prediction?

I’m going for it.  Ross Chastain wins the 2026 Championship.