Daytona 500: Several teams revert to backup cars

Saturday, 13 February 2021 at 06:00

Six teams have so far confirmed that they will turn to backup cars for the remainder of the Daytona 500 weekend following two eventful duels.

Those doing so will still be credited with their qualifying positions but will drop to the rear ahead of the green flag on Sunday.

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As expected, William Byron is among those dropping to the rear having been involved in a late race wreck in Duel 2. Byron will miss out on a front-row start alongside teammate Alex Bowman. Hendrick Motorsports have not yet said that Bowman, who himself was struggling in Duel 1, will turn to the backup #48. However, with two more practice sessions before the race, this could change.

Here’s the full list of drivers who are taking their backups:

• Brad Keselowski, No. 2 Team Penske Ford (qualified: 24th)
• Kaz Grala, No. 16 Kaulig Racing Chevrolet (qualified: 40th)
• William Byron, No. 24 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet (qualified: 2nd)
• Anthony Alfredo, No. 38 Front Row Motorsports Ford (qualified: 36th)
• Cole Custer, No. 41 Stewart-Haas Racing Ford (qualified: 27th)
• Ross Chastain, No. 42 Chip Ganassi Racing Chevrolet (qualified: 34th)