Countdown to Daytona 2026 - 25 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: John Hunter Nemechek

Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images

No. 42 Car – Legacy Motor Club

2025 Stats

Standings	25th
Wins	0
Points	664
Stage Points	60
Stage Wins	0
Laps Led	37
Lead Lap Finishes	22
Average Finish	20.3
DNFs	3
Races since last win	N/A

What Does Success Look Like in 2026?

John Hunter Nemechek is a fine young driver on a team that is still building.  The two Legacy drivers finished in the Top 25 of the points last season, but I think they would like to aim for Top 20 this year.  Nemechek is still looking for his first Cup Series win, but I don’t think LMC’s equipment is there just yet. 

Best-Case Scenario in 2026?

I don’t see Nemechek emerging as a true title threat just yet in his career, but he could challenge for a win at a drafting track.  With the removal of the win-and-you’re-in rule, Nemechek’s playoff hopes aren’t high, but a win isn’t completely crazy.

Most Likely Outcome in 2026?

Nemechek and Legacy Motor Club are still slowly on the rise, but I don’t think they’re ready to jump to the next level just yet.  I think finishing in the Top 25 of the standings is a real possibility, with some extra consistency in finishes.

Bold Prediction?

Nemechek wins the Daytona 500.