URGENT UPDATE: Tyler Reddick has claimed victory in the 2024 Daytona 500, driving a car owned by Michael Jordan. The win comes in dramatic fashion as Chase Elliott crashed while battling for the lead, allowing Reddick to seize the opportunity in a race filled with unexpected twists.
In a thrilling finish on February 18, 2024, Reddick led only the final lap, sealing the win for 23XI Racing, co-owned by Jordan and three-time Daytona 500 champion Denny Hamlin. “Just incredible how it all played out. Just true Daytona madness,” Reddick exclaimed, marking a new record as the 25th driver to lead a lap in the storied race.
This victory is monumental for Jordan, who is set to receive a Daytona 500 ring for his 63rd birthday on February 20. Jordan humorously noted his ring size as 13, expressing his exhilaration, “It feels like I won a championship.”
Reddick, 30, from Corning, California, celebrated his first win since late in the 2024 season, ending a 38-race winless streak that had weighed heavily on him, particularly after facing personal challenges with his son’s health. “Never thought I’d be Daytona 500 champion,” he said, his voice hoarse from excitement.
Teammate Bubba Wallace also faced a rollercoaster race, leading a race-high 40 laps before finishing 10th. Wallace, visibly emotional, congratulated Reddick while lamenting his missed opportunity, stating, “Happy birthday, MJ. That’s a massive birthday present.”
Denny Hamlin, who finished in 31st place, was involved in a caution incident that led to the race’s final four laps, ultimately hindering his bid for a fourth Daytona 500 title. He noted the significance of the victory for Jordan and Reddick, saying, “It was a great day for them, but damn. Try again next year.”
The final lap saw Reddick execute a bold move, assisted by teammate Riley Herbst, overtaking Elliott after the latter had taken the lead following a crash involving Carson Hocevar. The dramatic turn of events left Elliott in disbelief, reflecting on the pressure of leadership, “You’re just on defense… that’s a really, really tough place to be.”
Jordan’s triumph is particularly resonant following his recent involvement in a federal antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR, which he successfully navigated just days before the race. The victory is a testament to his resilience and vision for the sport, as he watched the event unfold from a suite overlooking the track.
NASCAR Chairman Jim France congratulated Reddick and Jordan in victory lane, marking a significant moment for both the team and the sport. Jordan stated, “I can’t even believe it. It was so gratifying… We hung in there all day. Great strategy by the team, and we gave ourselves a chance at the end. Look, I’m ecstatic.”
As fans and fellow drivers celebrate this historic win, all eyes will be on the upcoming races as Reddick and his team look to build on this momentum. The Daytona 500 victory not only cements Reddick’s place in NASCAR history but also elevates Jordan’s status in the racing community. This is a moment that will undoubtedly resonate for years to come.