America 250 Florida partners with NASCAR to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary at Duel at Daytona

Daytona Beach, Florida – In a move that blends high-speed excitement with historical celebration, Daytona International Speedway has announced a major partnership with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) for the America 250 Florida Duel at DAYTONA. The event, part of Speedweeks Presented by AdventHealth, will take place on Thursday, February 12, and is designed not only to entertain race fans but also to spotlight Florida’s long and storied history in automobile racing, all while commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States’ founding.

“It’s an honor to welcome the Florida Department of Transportation as our new sponsor for the America 250 Florida Duel at DAYTONA to help kick off Speedweeks Presented by AdventHealth in 2026,” said Frank Kelleher, President of Daytona International Speedway. “This sponsorship is a commitment to FDOT’s continued efforts to help keep Volusia County’s roadways safe. As we move forward on the shared journey toward a brighter future in Florida, there’s no better place to celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence than at The World Center of Racing.”

The America 250 Florida Duel at DAYTONA is not just a race; it is a celebration of speed, culture, and Florida’s unique contributions to the motorsport world. Florida has long been recognized as “the birthplace of speed,” tracing its racing history back nearly 125 years to competitions on sandy shorelines. Early automobile enthusiasts would test their vehicles along the state’s beaches, establishing records and pushing the limits of speed. That spirit evolved into the Daytona International Speedway, which now hosts millions of visitors from across the globe each year, with cars reaching velocities exceeding 200 miles per hour.

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“As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding, the America 250 Florida Duel at DAYTONA is an ideal opportunity to honor Florida’s storied history,” said FDOT Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. “FDOT is proud to partner with Daytona International Speedway to celebrate the thrill of racing while keeping our focus on safety where it matters most.”

The partnership between FDOT and Daytona International Speedway is also designed to highlight road safety. Through its Target Zero initiative, FDOT has long sought to reduce serious injuries and fatalities on Florida’s roadways. By sponsoring this high-profile racing event, FDOT aims to remind motorists that history should be made on the racetrack, not on public streets. The department encourages drivers to adhere to safe practices, including wearing seatbelts, avoiding impaired driving, obeying speed limits, and minimizing distractions behind the wheel.

“The history of automobile racing in Florida began in 1903 with a line drawn on the Florida sand, and throughout the years, the sport has rapidly grown in the state to make the Daytona 500 the most prestigious race on the NASCAR calendar,” said Secretary of State Cord Byrd, Chair of Florida’s Semiquincentennial Commission. “Duel at Daytona is an exciting way to commemorate that history for the America250FL initiative which celebrates Florida’s role in the 250th (semiquincentennial) anniversary of our nation’s founding. Visit America250FL.com and follow America250FL on X, Facebook, and Instagram to stay informed about ways to commemorate America250FL and our history.”

The America 250 Florida Duel at DAYTONA will serve as a prelude to the 68th running of the DAYTONA 500, one of NASCAR’s most prestigious events. During the Duel, drivers compete for their starting positions in the Daytona 500, adding extra intensity and excitement to Speedweeks. Fans attending the event will not only witness high-speed racing but will also be able to engage with FDOT’s educational and safety-focused displays.

“Florida’s racing culture is woven into the state’s identity,” Kelleher explained. “From record-breaking early beach races to today’s technologically advanced cars, the state has cultivated a spirit of competition, innovation, and community. Partnering with FDOT allows us to celebrate this legacy while emphasizing the importance of safety, both on and off the track.”

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The initiative also underscores Florida’s broader role in the nation’s history. As the country marks its semiquincentennial — the 250th anniversary of independence — the America 250 Florida Duel at DAYTONA serves as a reminder of the state’s long-standing contributions to sports, tourism, and innovation. The event is designed to be family-friendly, engaging, and educational, offering opportunities for attendees to explore the intersection of history, culture, and motorsports.

“The excitement of Speedweeks is unmatched, and adding the historical context of America 250 makes this a truly unique celebration,” said Perdue. “We want every visitor to Daytona to feel the energy of the race while also understanding the importance of responsible driving. Safety is a core part of FDOT’s mission, and this partnership provides a visible, high-profile platform to reinforce that message.”

Fans attending the America 250 Florida Duel at DAYTONA will also have the chance to learn more about Florida’s semiquincentennial celebrations through various displays and social media campaigns. Secretary Byrd encouraged residents and visitors alike to engage with America250FL content online to learn more about the state’s history and ongoing efforts to commemorate the anniversary.

“This partnership is about more than racing; it is about celebrating the innovation, determination, and spirit of Floridians who have contributed to both motorsports and the broader story of America,” Byrd said. “From the sandy beaches where it all began to the state-of-the-art facilities of today, Florida’s racing history is an integral part of our national story. Duel at Daytona highlights that legacy in a fun, exciting, and safe way.”

The event promises to combine high-octane thrills with educational outreach, offering attendees a chance to experience NASCAR racing at its finest while also learning about safe driving practices. FDOT’s Target Zero initiative emphasizes that these lessons are not just for show; they are vital for reducing accidents, injuries, and fatalities on public roads across Florida.

“Every year, Speedweeks draws visitors from across the nation and around the world,” said Kelleher. “By partnering with FDOT, we are reinforcing the idea that excitement and safety can coexist. Fans can witness the power, precision, and excitement of NASCAR racing while also taking home important lessons that can save lives on the road.”

As part of the America 250 Florida initiative, Daytona International Speedway will host educational booths, safety demonstrations, and other fan engagement activities in addition to the high-speed racing action. FDOT representatives will be on hand to provide guidance, answer questions, and offer resources to help attendees drive safely throughout Florida.

Secretary Perdue noted that the partnership was also intended to create a lasting legacy: “We hope this collaboration sets a precedent for celebrating Florida’s rich heritage responsibly. The lessons learned at the track, combined with the fun and thrill of Speedweeks, will help ensure that everyone goes home safely.”

The America 250 Florida Duel at DAYTONA is set to be a highlight of the 2026 Speedweeks Presented by AdventHealth calendar, promising intense competition, historical recognition, and a strong focus on public safety. Tickets and additional information are available at www.DAYTONA500.com, where fans can also explore ways to participate in Florida’s 250th anniversary celebrations.

From the first beach races in the early 20th century to today’s record-breaking Daytona 500, Florida’s motorsport heritage continues to grow and captivate new generations. The America 250 Florida Duel at DAYTONA stands as a reminder that history, speed, and safety can come together in one unforgettable experience.