When the 2022 NASCAR Cup season kicked off, Austin Cindric drew first blood. Cindric seized victory at the Daytona 500 as a mere Cup Series rookie. Even more incredible is the fact that he had an equally exhilarating experience before the race. As it turned out, the Team Penske driver had a go in an F-16 Fighting Falcon, and loved the experience. To make the weekend even better, he would go on to win at Daytona, his first Cup Series win in his career. Cindric said [https://theathletic.com/3145887/2022/03/03/bianchi-in-an-f-16-high-above-daytona-austin-cindric-found-his-happy-place-and-i-nearly-lost-my-lunch/?source=user-shared-article], “No better way to create a bond than going nine G’s together in an F-16 and then win the Daytona 500 a couple days later. Talk about badass. I can’t even begin to say how cool of an experience that was. As someone that’s grown up loving ‘Star Wars’ their entire life, that’s probably the closest I’ll get to flying in an X-wing.” AUSTIN CINDRIC WAS NOT THE ONLY ONE WHO GOT THE EXPERIENCE Also joining him in the air was Wood Brothers Racing driver Harrison Burton. Additionally, journalist Jordan Bianchi also took to the air with them. However, all three of them had different reactions to the experience of flying in the fighter jets. Cindric and Burton found it exciting, while Bianchi confessed that he was scared out of his wits. Austin Cindric NASCAR [https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2022-02-21T091326Z_95021790_17732214_RTRMADP_3_MOTOR-NASCAR.jpg]Feb 20, 2022; Daytona Beach, Florida, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Austin Cindric (2) reacts after winning the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-USA TODAY Sports TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY Cindric even revealed that the experience was special, as he is a massive fan of the Star Wars series. As he mentioned, the F-16 Fighting Falcon felt like he was in an X-wing craft. In fact, he is such a big fan of the movie series that he even has socks [https://thecomeback.com/racing/austin-cindric-star-wars-family-canada.html] with pictures of the character Chewbacca and a Darth Vader T-shirt. In terms of his favorite movies, he quite liked Revenge of the Sith. He was also fond of the characters Mace Windu and Obi-Wan Kenobi, as well as Chewbacca. READ MORE: Daytona 500 Winner Austin Cindric Opens Up About Nerves as a NASCAR Driver to ‘Coach K’ Mike Krzyzewski [https://www.essentiallysports.com/nascar-news-daytona-500-winner-austin-cindric-opens-about-nerves-as-a-nascar-driver-to-coach-k-mike-krzyzewski/] 

Mere days before he won the Daytona 500, securing his first career Cup Series
win, Austin Cindric had a go in an F-16 Fighting Falcon

Dhruv George is a Senior NASCAR Author at EssentiallySports, with an impressive record of over 14K articles. From F1 driver Pierre Gasly to Moto2 rider Tony Arbolino, Dhruv has interviewed several racers, establishing himself as an authoritative voice in the world of motorsports. He not only writes engaging content but helps connect readers with some of the biggest racing names thanks to his ability to churn out exclusive interviews.

Dhruv's ambition extends beyond writing, as he aspires to host a successful motorsports podcast with some of the biggest stars in the industry, like Kyle Busch and Denny Hamlin. When he's not writing about Stock Car Racing, he can be found reading and writing fan fiction.

Dhruv George

Dhruv George is a Senior NASCAR Author at EssentiallySports, with an impressive record of over 14K articles. From F1 driver Pierre Gasly to Moto2 rider Tony Arbolino, Dhruv has interviewed several racers, establishing himself as an authoritative voice in the world of motorsports. Dhruv's ambition extends beyond writing, as he aspires to host a successful motorsports podcast with some of the biggest stars in the industry, like Kyle Busch.

Dhruv George | Senior NASCAR Author at EssentiallySports

EssentiallySports

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Dhruv George is a Senior NASCAR Author at EssentiallySports, with an impressive record of over 14K articles. From F1 driver Pierre Gasly to Moto2 rider Tony Arbolino, Dhruv has interviewed several racers, establishing himself as an authoritative voice in the world of motorsports. He not only writes engaging content but helps connect readers with some of the biggest racing names thanks to his ability to churn out exclusive interviews. Dhruv's ambition extends beyond writing, as he aspires to host a successful motorsports podcast with some of the biggest stars in the industry, like Kyle Busch and Denny Hamlin. When he's not writing about Stock Car Racing, he can be found reading and writing fan fiction.

https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Dhruv-George-1-96x96.png

Dhruv George is a senior Motorsports author for EssentiallySports, having
authored nearly 12000 articles spanning different sports like F1, NASCAR,
Tennis, NFL, and eSports. He graduated with a PG Diploma in Journalism from the
Xavier Institute of Communications. Dhruv has also conducted interviews with F1
driver Pierre Gasly and Moto2 rider Tony Arbolino. He has been an ardent
follower of motorsports sport since 2001, holding Carlos Sainz Jr. and McLaren
in high regard.

https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Dhruv_George.png

Daytona 500 Winner Austin Cindric Opens Up About Nerves as a NASCAR Driver to
‘Coach K’ Mike Krzyzewski

NASCAR: Daytona 500

Feb 20, 2022; Daytona Beach, Florida, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Austin Cindric (2) celebrates winning the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

NASCAR: Daytona 500 - EssentiallySports

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Stars Wars Fan Austin Cindric Recalls the Badass Fighter Jet Experience He Had,
Days Before Daytona 500 Triumph

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<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>What is the Daytona 500?</strong></h2>
For any NASCAR fan, the Daytona 500 race holds a special place in their hearts. The most prestigious race in the Cup Series, a win at the revered race bestows limitless repute and honor to its victor. Often referred to as the unofficial "birthplace of speed", Daytona Beach, where the race has been held for over six decades, has a long and storied history. Currently, it features on the <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/category/nascar/nascar-cup-series/">NASCAR Cup Series</a> schedule as one of the four crown-jewel races and also features the highest winning prize among all Cup races.

[caption id="attachment_1627382" align="alignnone" width="1"]<img class="size-medium wp-image-1627382" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/imago1024835900h.jpg" alt="Daytona 500" width="1" height="1" /> Daytona International Speedway plays host to the NASCAR, Motorsport, USA Cup Series for the Daytona 500 in Daytona Beach, FL, USA. Daytona Beach United States of America - ZUMAc04_ 20230219_zaf_c04_386 Copyright: xWalterxGxArcexSrxActionxSportsxPx[/caption]
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>Origins of the Daytona 500</strong></h2>
While many stories about the origin of Daytona races date back to 1903 when two men challenged each other to a race to decide whose horseless carriage was the fastest, the sturdy stock car race at the iconic location came into being in 1959, courtesy of NASCAR founder Bill France Sr. And on February 22, in front of 41,000 people, the revered race planted its seed to mega-stardom. The inaugural race was the only instance when both hard top and convertible vehicles were allowed to race. Since then, the Daytona 500 has been much-awaited by stock car racing fans every year.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-2632995 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/DoBedrfXoAAjZ5P-1.jpeg" alt="" width="3000" height="2400" />

And while the Daytona Beach, Florida location is already iconic, the track that hosts the Daytona 500 race is just as well-thought out and executed. Wanting to give fans an edge-of-the-seat thriller, Bill Frances Sr brainstormed alongside engineers to create a track that would have the highest banking, allowing cars to reach topmost speed. And soon the prospect presented itself in the form of a tri-oval with 31 degrees banking at turns and 18 degrees at the start/finish lines. With 2.5 mile in length, today, the race lasts 500 miles/200 laps.

The first-ever Daytona 500, called the <b>1959 First 500 Mile NASCAR International Sweepstakes at Daytona</b> back then, saw 59 cars competing. The winning purse of the inaugural race had a steep value of $53, 050, out of which Lee Petty took home $19,050 for his victory while the runner-up Beauchamp secured $7,650.
<h2 style="text-align: center"><span style="font-weight: 400"><strong>Why is the Daytona 500 called ‘The Great American Race’</strong></span></h2>
As one of the most iconic spectator sports events in America, the Daytona 500 definitely takes the cake when it comes to being NASCAR's crème de la crème. Throughout history, the event has often been compared to the Super-Bowl, the crown jewel of the NFL. However, many NASCAR enthusiasts haven't been too keen about that description and have placed the crown-jewel race way above the Super Bowl.

The Daytona 500 has also been synonymous with the President's Day weekend in every NASCAR fan's heart. From 1968 to 2011, the race was held on President's Day weekend every year. However, NASCAR decided to change that in 2012 with news of an NFL schedule revamp doing the rounds. As per reports, NFL was planning to expand its 18-game regular season and as per the new roster, the Super Bowl was to be held on the same day as the Daytona 500. Sensing a dent on viewership numbers, the stock car racing organization move the race. However, as the NFL season-expansion plans failed to reach fruition, the Daytona 500 was moved to its original calendar spot. Now, that's definitely a win-win!

While the winning purse of the Daytona 500 is already a stuff of legends, sitting atop with the largest return, the trophy being awarded to the victors isn't any less prized either. Called the Harley J Earl trophy, the prize has been named after legendary automobile designer, Harley Earl, who was also a close friend of Bill France Sr and a General Motors executive back in the day. Earl is most significantly known for being the Father of the Corvette. He has also been credited for designing the Firebird I prototype. The Daytona 500 race is full of prestige and perks for sure.

One other aspect that the race victor gets to experience is their car being showcased at the Daytona 500 experience, for one year in its race-winning condition. For the uninitiated, the Daytona 500 Experience is a museum and gallery situated next to the Daytona International Speedway.

[caption id="attachment_1948603" align="alignnone" width="1800"]<img class="wp-image-1948603 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/imago0004296892h.jpg" alt="Daytona 500" width="1800" height="1200" /> Teilnehmerfeld der Daytona 500, v.li.: Martin Truex Jr., Tony Stewart, Kurt Busch, Jimmie Johnson, David Ragan, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Clint Bowyer, Carl Edwards, Brian Vickers und David Stremme - (ZUMAse4)[/caption]
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>Highlights of the Daytona 500</strong></h2>
The inaugural Daytona 500 race in 1959 was won by Richard Petty's father, the legendary Lee Petty. The patriarch of the NASCAR royalty family clinched victory driving a 1959 Oldsmobile for Newton Chappell at the inaugural event outperforming Johnny Beauchamp. Charley Griffith, representing Red Bank, finished P3, while Cotton Owens and Joe Weatherly wrapped up the Top-5 positions.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-2491357 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/lee-petty.jpeg" alt="" width="1600" height="1262" />

&nbsp;

Lee Petty's son isn't much far behind on the Daytona 500 record book either. With seven wins, <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/richard-petty/">Richard Petty</a> sits atop the most-wins list at the venue. What makes his feat even more legendary is the fact that Petty managed to clinch four of those titles in a single decade, in 1971, 1973, 1974 and 1979. The rest of his victories came in 1964, 1966 and 1981.

While the initial years of the Daytona 500 didn't see much vehicle policing, it soon became apparent that certain rules and restrictions would have to be put in place. One of the biggest instances of a change came in 1988 when former stock car racing driver and NASCAR Hall of Famer Bobby Allison's car went airborne and hit the catch fence at 200 mph at Talladega in May, the previous year. As a result, restrictor plates were made mandatory in hopes that they would stunt speed, which in turn would stop vehicles from going airborne.

Speaking of Bobby Allison, he also became the oldest driver to win the race at 50 years, 2 months and 11 days, in 1988. On the other hand, Trevor Bayne is the youngest Daytona 500 winner. Bayne was 20 years and 1 day old when he won the event in 2011.

Another revamp that hit NASCAR and the Daytona 500 was during the 50th anniversary of the Daytona 500 race, when 'Cars of Tomorrow' debuted for the first time in the stock car racing circuit. While the name might throw some people off, 'Cars of Tomorrow' simply entailed that the same roll cage, frame and body would be used in all kinds of race tracks as opposed to how crew members would need to build different cars for different tracks like superspeedways, road courses and short tracks.

The Daytona 500, being such a grand event, has often been associated with high-profile names. In a bid to make the event even more exciting, every year, the organizers bring in popular figures to serve as a Grand Marshal. While 'Captain America' famed Chris Evans graced the event in 2014, Nicholas cage stopped by in 2007. Even former US presidents Donald Trump and George W Busch served as the event's grand marshal in 2020 and 2004, respectively.
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong> Qualifying Format of the Daytona 500</strong></h2>
Currently, the Daytona 500 sees 40 cars competing, out of which 36 sports belong to drivers whose teams have their own charters. The rest of the 4 spots, which are referred to as open cars and constitute teams that do not own a charter.

In its 65 year history, the Daytona 500 has had many revamps to its qualifying format. From two timed laps, the better of two laps, to the average of two laps, the crown jewel race has explored several avenues to decide its starting grid. However, what stuck and is currently in place is a two-race qualifying. The first race is a single-car qualifying where each driver takes up one lap. The Top 10 drivers from that round advance to the second round where their order in the main event starting grid is determined. The single-car runs decide the front row of the Daytona 500. They also decide the lineup for the qualifying races also referred to as <em>"the duels". </em>The starting grid is eventually decided on the basis of the duels.
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>The Black Sunday of the Daytona 500</strong></h2>
The Daytona 500 was perhaps one of <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/dale-earnhardt/">Dale Earnhardt</a>'s greatest achievements. After chasing an elusive win at the track for about two decades of his career, the driver finally succeeded in finish P1 in 1998. However, just three years later, the same race would claim his life. It all happened on February 18, 2001, when the driver was competing in the final lap of the race. <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/nascar-news-nerve-wracking-crashes-that-changed-nascar-forever-edition-five-dale-earnhardt/">The driver slammed head-first into the retaining wall</a> after contact with Ken Schrader and Sterling Marlin. The driver had suffered from a basilar skull fracture and had died instantly upon contact. Earnardt's death triggered a wave of safety improvements in stock cars and are seen even today.

[caption id="attachment_2105958" align="alignnone" width="1920"]<img class="wp-image-2105958 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/imago1029986512h-e1699811493626.jpg" alt="Dale Earnhardt Sr" width="1920" height="1080" /> US PRESSWIRE Sports-Historical Unknown date Daytona Beach, FL, USA: FILE PHOTO NASCAR, Motorsport, USA Winston Cup Series driver Dale Earnhardt Sr 3 waits in his car in the garage area at the Daytona International Speedway. Daytona Beach Florida UNITED STATES, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xUSAxTODAYxSportsx 5145564<br />Image Credits - Imago[/caption]

&nbsp;
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>The changes of the name of the Daytona 500</strong></h2>
The Daytona 500 has seen a plethora of name changes till date. While the first-ever edition of the race was called the 1959 First 500 Mile NASCAR International Sweepstakes at Daytona, the name was changed the very next year to the Inaugural 500 Mile International Sweepstakes. The race, then, went on to be known as the Daytona 500 by STP from 1991 to 1993. On the year of Dale Earnhardt's passing in 2001, it was known as the Daytona 500 by Dodge. In 2007, a new name was coined yet again and this time, the race was called Daytona 500 by Toyota. From 1961 to 1990, 1994 to 2000 and from 2002 to 2006, the race was called Daytona 500 and since 2008, that's the very name that has stuck around.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Daytona 500

Read on to know all about the glorious history, origins and lesser know facts about the crown-jewel race of NASCAR, the Daytona 500.

Daytona 500: Origins, Past Winners, Race Results

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Mere days before he won the Daytona 500, securing his first career Cup Series win, Austin Cindric had a go in an F-16 Fighting Falcon

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Austin Cindric Sheds Light on the Most "Badass" Moment He Was In, Hours Before Daytona 500 Triumph

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[caption id="attachment_438923" align="alignnone" width="1920"]<img class="size-full wp-image-438923" src="https://www.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2020-11-08T013239Z_1623600200_MT1USATODAY15175015_RTRMADP_3_NASCAR-XFINITY-SERIES-DESERT-DIAMOND-CASINO-WEST-VALLEY-200.jpg" alt="Austin Cindric Triumphs at the Phoenix Raceway" width="1920" height="1332" /> Nov 7, 2020; Avondale, AZ, USA; NASCAR Xfinity Series driver Austin Cindric celebrates after winning the 2020 Championship and the Desert Diamond Casino West Valley 200 at Phoenix Raceway. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]
<h2>Austin Cindric 2021 Net Worth, Salary, and Endorsements</h2>
Austin Cindric is an American racing driver. He contends full-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. Austin drives the No. 22 Ford Mustang for Team Penske.

He is the 2020 NASCAR Xfinity Series Champion.
<h2>Austin Cindric: Stats and Championships</h2>
Cindric began his career in legends vehicle and Bandolero in North Carolina. In 2013 and 2014 he competed in the U.S. F2000 National Championship. In 2013 he completed seventeenth, driving for Andretti Autosport.

In 2014 he changed his team and joined Pabst Racing Services, completing fourteenth. He likewise contended in Historic Sports Car Racing. Austin even won a race in a Porsche 944.

In 2016, he drove the No. 6 McLaren for K-PAX Racing in the Pirelli World Challenge. Austin also joined Martin-McClure Racing for two K&amp;N Pro Series East occasions and for Brad Keselowski Racing in the No. 2 F-150 at Dover International Speedway.

During the 2017 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series season, he snatched the pole position for the season's solitary street course race. It was held at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park.

In August 2017, Cindric joined Team Penske. He drove the no. 22 car for the Xfinity Series race at Road America.

In 2018, Cindric ran the full season in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. He drove three distinctive Ford Mustangs: Penske's No. 12 and No. 22 Fords, and the No. 60 Ford of Roush Fenway Racing.

On November 8, 2018, Team Penske declared that Cindric would contend full-time in their No. 22 Ford Mustang in 2019. MoneyLion was his primary sponsor.

In August 2019, Cindric won his first NASCAR Xfinity race with consecutive road course triumphs at Watkins Glen and Mid-Ohio.

In 2020, he won the regular-season title with a 10th spot finish in the finale at Richmond. He entered the post-season with five victories. Cindric succeeded at Phoenix to win the 2020 Xfinity title.
<h2>Austin Cindric: 2021 Net Worth</h2>
As per the <a href="http://peopleai.com/fame/identities/austin-cindric">internet sources</a>, the Net Worth of the 2020 Xfinity Series Champion is $1 Million.
<h2>Auston Cindric: Sponsors</h2>
Primary sponsors of Austin Cindric are MoneyLion, Menards, PPG, Snap-on, Enersys, LTi Ford Mustang.

[caption id="attachment_410714" align="alignnone" width="1920"]<img class="size-full wp-image-410714" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/20201015004448/2020-10-10T211910Z_151909016_NOCID_RTRMADP_3_NASCAR-XFINITY-RACE-CHARLOTTE-ROVAL.jpg" alt="Austin Cindric in action in NASCAR Xfinity Series" width="1920" height="1178" /> Oct 10, 2020; Concord, North Carolina, USA; NASCAR Xfinity Series driver Austin Cindric (22) races during the Drive for the Cure 250 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports[/caption]
<h2>Austin Cindric: Family</h2>
Austin Cindric is the son of Team Penske president Tim Cindric. He is the grandson of IndyCar group proprietor Jim Trueman.
<h2>How to contact Austin Cindric</h2>
Austin Cindric is very active and highly popular on social media. As a result, it's the most accessible and easiest method to keep in touch with the Xfinity Series Champion.

Cindric is on all the popular social media platforms such as <a href="https://www.instagram.com/austincindric/">Instagram</a>,?<a href="https://twitter.com/austincindric">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/austin.cindric/">Facebook</a>.
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td width="301">Age</td>
<td width="301">22 Years</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="301">Residence</td>
<td width="301">Columbus, Ohio</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="301">Nationality</td>
<td width="301">American</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="301">Team</td>
<td width="301">Team Penske</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="301">Endorsements</td>
<td width="301">MoneyLion, Menards, PPG, Snap-on, Enersys, LTi Ford Mustang</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="301">Championships</td>
<td width="301">1 ? 2020(Xfinity Series)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="301">Birthday</td>
<td width="301">September 2, 1998</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="301">Height</td>
<td width="301">6?ft 4?in (1.93?m)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

Austin Cindric

Nov 7, 2020; Avondale, AZ, USA; NASCAR Xfinity Series driver Austin Cindric celebrates after winning the 2020 Championship and the Desert Diamond Casino West Valley 200 at Phoenix Raceway. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports Austin Cindric 2021 Net Worth, Salary, and Endorsements Austin Cindric is an American racing driver. He contends full-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. Austin drives the No. 22 Ford Mustang for Team Penske. He is the 2020 NASCAR Xfinity Series Champion. Austin Cindric: Stats and Championships Cindric began his career in legends vehicle and Bandolero in North Carolina. In 2013 and 2014 he competed in the U.S. F2000 National Championship. In 2013 he completed seventeenth, driving for Andretti Autosport. In 2014 he changed his team and joined Pabst Racing Services, completing fourteenth. He likewise contended in Historic Sports Car Racing. Austin even won a race in a Porsche 944. In 2016, he drove the No. 6 McLaren for K-PAX Racing in the Pirelli World Challenge. Austin also joined Martin-McClure Racing for two K&amp;N Pro Series East occasions and for Brad Keselowski Racing in the No. 2 F-150 at Dover International Speedway. During the 2017 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series season, he snatched the pole position for the season&#8217;s solitary street course race. It was held at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park. In August 2017, Cindric joined Team Penske. He drove the no. 22 car for the Xfinity Series race at Road America. In 2018, Cindric ran the full season in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. He drove three distinctive Ford Mustangs: Penske&#8217;s No. 12 and No. 22 Fords, and the No. 60 Ford of Roush Fenway Racing. On November 8, 2018, Team Penske declared that Cindric would contend full-time in their No. 22 Ford Mustang in 2019. MoneyLion was his primary sponsor. In August 2019, Cindric won his first NASCAR Xfinity race with consecutive road course triumphs at Watkins Glen and Mid-Ohio. In 2020, he won the regular-season title with a 10th spot finish in the finale at Richmond. He entered the post-season with five victories. Cindric succeeded at Phoenix to win the 2020 Xfinity title. Austin Cindric: 2021 Net Worth As per the internet sources, the Net Worth of the 2020 Xfinity Series Champion is $1 Million. Auston Cindric: Sponsors Primary sponsors of Austin Cindric are MoneyLion, Menards, PPG, Snap-on, Enersys, LTi Ford Mustang. Oct 10, 2020; Concord, North Carolina, USA; NASCAR Xfinity Series driver Austin Cindric (22) races during the Drive for the Cure 250 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports Austin Cindric: Family Austin Cindric is the son of Team Penske president Tim Cindric. He is the grandson of IndyCar group proprietor Jim Trueman. How to contact Austin Cindric Austin Cindric is very active and highly popular on social media. As a result, it&#8217;s the most accessible and easiest method to keep in touch with the Xfinity Series Champion. Cindric is on all the popular social media platforms such as Instagram,?Twitter, and Facebook.  Age 22 Years  Residence Columbus, Ohio  Nationality American  Team Team Penske  Endorsements MoneyLion, Menards, PPG, Snap-on, Enersys, LTi Ford Mustang  Championships 1 ? 2020(Xfinity Series)  Birthday September 2, 1998  Height 6?ft 4?in (1.93?m)

Austin Cindric Archives

Austin Cindric Archives - EssentiallySports

<h2 style="text-align: center"><b>The Daytona 500 2024</b></h2>
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>What is the Daytona 500?</strong></h2>
For any NASCAR fan, the Daytona 500 race holds a special place in their hearts. The most prestigious race in the Cup Series, a win at the revered race bestows limitless repute and honor to its victor. Often referred to as the unofficial "birthplace of speed", Daytona Beach, where the race has been held for over six decades, has a long and storied history. Currently, it features on the NASCAR Cup Series schedule as one of the four crown-jewel races and also features the highest winning prize among all Cup races.
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>Why is the Daytona 500 called the Great American Race?</strong></h2>
As one of the most iconic spectator sports events in America, the Daytona 500 definitely takes the cake when it comes to being NASCAR's crème de la crème. Throughout history, the event has often been compared to the Super-Bowl, the crown jewel of the NFL. However, many NASCAR enthusiasts haven't been too keen about that description and have placed the crown-jewel race way above the Super Bowl.

The race is also called the 'The Great American Race' and given the storied history of the Daytona International Speedway and its roots in racing, the moniker is surely a well-deserved one.
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>When is the Daytona 500 2024?</strong></h2>
The 2024 Daytona 500 is set to be held on <strong>February 18, Sunday</strong> at<strong> 7:30pm GMT/2:30pm ET</strong>.
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>What is the format of the Daytona 500?</strong></h2>
In its 65 year history, the Daytona 500 has had many revamps to its qualifying format. From two timed laps, the better of two laps, to the average of two laps, the crown jewel race has explored several avenues to decide its starting grid. However, what stuck and is currently in place is a two-race qualifying. The first race is a single-car qualifying where each driver takes up one lap. The Top 10 drivers from that round advance to the second round where their order in the main event starting grid is determined. The single-car runs decide the front row of the Daytona 500. They also decide the lineup for the qualifying races also referred to as <em>"the duels". </em>The starting grid is eventually decided on the basis of the duels.

[caption id="attachment_1948603" align="alignnone" width="1800"]<img class="wp-image-1948603 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/imago0004296892h.jpg" alt="Daytona 500" width="1800" height="1200" /> Teilnehmerfeld der Daytona 500, v.li.: Martin Truex Jr., Tony Stewart, Kurt Busch, Jimmie Johnson, David Ragan, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Clint Bowyer, Carl Edwards, Brian Vickers und David Stremme - (ZUMAse4)[/caption]
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>Who are the past winners of the Daytona 500?</strong></h2>
The inaugural Daytona 500 race in 1959 was won by Richard Petty's father, the legendary Lee Petty. The patriarch of the NASCAR royalty family clinched victory driving a 1959 Oldsmobile for Newton Chappell at the inaugural event outperforming Johnny Beauchamp. Charley Griffith, representing Red Bank, finished P3, while Cotton Owens and Joe Weatherly wrapped up the Top-5 positions.

Lee Petty's son isn't much far behind on the Daytona 500 record book either. With seven wins, Richard Petty sits atop the most-wins list at the venue. What makes his feat even more legendary is the fact that Petty managed to clinch four of those titles in a single decade, in 1971, 1973, 1974 and 1979. The rest of his victories came in 1964, 1966 and 1981.

[caption id="attachment_859313" align="alignnone" width="1920"]<img class="wp-image-859313 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/GettyImages-1018179224.jpg" alt="Richard Petty" width="1920" height="1280" /> BRISTOL, TN - AUGUST 17: Team owner, Richard Petty, stands on pit road during practice for the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Bass Pro Shops NRA Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway on August 17, 2018 in Bristol, Tennessee. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)[/caption]

Following 'The King' on the most-wins tally is Carl Yarborough with four wins in 1968, 1977, 1983 and 1984. The current vice-chairman of Hendrick Motorsports, Jeff Gordon also won the Daytona 500 three times in 1997, 1999 and 2005. The Pied Piper of Daytona, <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/dale-earnhardt-jr/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dale Earnhardt Jr</a> and seven-time Cup Series Champion <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/jimmie-johnson/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jimmie Johnson</a> won the race on two occasions in 2004 and 2014, and 2006 and 2013, respectively.

Among the current batch of drivers, the one who clinched the most victory lane visits is <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/denny-hamlin/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Denny Hamlin</a> with three wins, two of which were back-to-back (2016, 2019 and 2020). However, many talented drivers are yet to get their hands on the elusive title that includes two-time Cup Series champions <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/kyle-busch/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kyle Busch</a> and <a href="https://www.essentiallysports.com/tag/kyle-larson" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kyle Larson</a>.
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>What is the eligibility of the Daytona 500 2024?</strong></h2>
Currently, the Daytona 500 sees 40 cars competing, out of which 36 sports belong to drivers whose teams have their own charters. The rest of the 4 spots, which are referred to as open cars and constitute teams that do not own a charter.
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>The entry list for the Daytona 500 2024?</strong></h2>
The four non-charter teams that have announced their participation in the Daytona 500 2024 are:
<ul>
 	<li><span class="LinkEnhancement">David Ragan - </span>No. 60 Ford Mustang for RFK Racing</li>
 	<li>Anthony Alfredo - No. 62 Chevrolet Camaro for Beard Motorsports</li>
 	<li>Jimmie Johnson - the No. 84 Toyota Camry for Legacy Motor Club</li>
 	<li>BJ McLeod - No. 78 Chevrolet Camaro for Live Fast Motorsports</li>
</ul>
The charter teams that will participate in the Daytona 500 2024 are:
<table style="border-collapse: collapse;width: 53.0357%;height: 944px">
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 24px">
<td style="width: 29.2857%;height: 24px">
<h3>Owner-Manufacturer</h3>
</td>
<td style="width: 23.75%;height: 24px">
<h3 style="text-align: center">Driver-Car Number</h3>
</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 144px">
<td style="width: 29.2857%;height: 144px;text-align: center"><strong>Hendrick Motorsports, Chevrolet</strong></td>
<td style="width: 23.75%;height: 144px;text-align: center">No. 5 - Kyle Larson<br role="presentation" data-uw-rm-sr="" />No. 9 - Chase Elliott<br role="presentation" data-uw-rm-sr="" />No. 24 - William Byron<br role="presentation" data-uw-rm-sr="" />No. 48 - Alex Bowman</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 96px">
<td style="width: 29.2857%;height: 96px;text-align: center"><strong>Joe Gibbs Racing, Toyota</strong></td>
<td style="width: 23.75%;height: 96px;text-align: center">No. 11 - Denny Hamlin<br role="presentation" data-uw-rm-sr="" />No. 19 - Martin Truex Jr.<br role="presentation" data-uw-rm-sr="" />No. 20 - Christopher Bell<br role="presentation" data-uw-rm-sr="" />No. 54 - Ty Gibbs</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 96px">
<td style="width: 29.2857%;height: 96px;text-align: center"><strong>Stewart-Haas Racing, Ford</strong></td>
<td style="width: 23.75%;height: 96px;text-align: center">No. 4 - Josh Berry (R)<br role="presentation" data-uw-rm-sr="" />No. 10 - Noah Gragson<br role="presentation" data-uw-rm-sr="" />No. 14 - Chase Briscoe<br role="presentation" data-uw-rm-sr="" />No. 41 - Ryan Preece</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 72px">
<td style="width: 29.2857%;height: 72px;text-align: center"><strong>Team Penske, Ford</strong></td>
<td style="width: 23.75%;height: 72px;text-align: center">No. 2 - Austin Cindric<br role="presentation" data-uw-rm-sr="" />No. 12 - Ryan Blaney<br role="presentation" data-uw-rm-sr="" />No. 22 - Joey Logano</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 48px">
<td style="width: 29.2857%;height: 48px;text-align: center"><strong>Richard Childress Racing, Chevrolet</strong></td>
<td style="width: 23.75%;height: 48px;text-align: center">No. 3 - Austin Dillon<br role="presentation" data-uw-rm-sr="" />No. 8 - Kyle Busch</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 48px">
<td style="width: 29.2857%;height: 48px;text-align: center"><strong>Kaulig Racing, Chevrolet</strong></td>
<td style="width: 23.75%;height: 48px;text-align: center">No. 16 - A.J. Allmendinger<br role="presentation" data-uw-rm-sr="" />No. 31 - Daniel Hemric</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 48px">
<td style="width: 29.2857%;height: 48px;text-align: center"><strong>Legacy Motor Club, Toyota</strong></td>
<td style="width: 23.75%;height: 48px;text-align: center">No. 42 - John Hunter Nemechek<br role="presentation" data-uw-rm-sr="" />No. 43 - Erik Jones</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 48px">
<td style="width: 29.2857%;height: 48px;text-align: center"><strong>RFK Racing, Ford</strong></td>
<td style="width: 23.75%;height: 48px;text-align: center">No. 6 - Brad Keselowski<br role="presentation" data-uw-rm-sr="" />No. 17 - Chris Buescher</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 48px">
<td style="width: 29.2857%;height: 48px;text-align: center"><strong>Trackhouse Racing Team, Chevrolet</strong></td>
<td style="width: 23.75%;height: 48px;text-align: center">No. 1 - Ross Chastain<br role="presentation" data-uw-rm-sr="" />No. 99 - Daniel Suarez</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 48px">
<td style="width: 29.2857%;height: 48px;text-align: center"><strong>23XI Racing, Toyota</strong></td>
<td style="width: 23.75%;height: 48px;text-align: center">No. 23 - Bubba Wallace<br role="presentation" data-uw-rm-sr="" />No. 45 - Tyler Reddick</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 72px">
<td style="width: 29.2857%;height: 72px;text-align: center"><strong>Spire Motorsports, Chevrolet</strong></td>
<td style="width: 23.75%;height: 72px;text-align: center">No. 7 - Corey LaJoie<br role="presentation" data-uw-rm-sr="" />No. 71 - Zane Smith<br role="presentation" data-uw-rm-sr="" />No. 77 - Carson Hocevar (R)</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 56px">
<td style="width: 29.2857%;height: 56px;text-align: center"><strong>Front Row Motorsports, Ford</strong></td>
<td style="width: 23.75%;height: 56px;text-align: center">No. 34 - Michael McDowell<br role="presentation" data-uw-rm-sr="" />No. 38 - Todd Gilliland</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24px">
<td style="width: 29.2857%;height: 24px;text-align: center"><strong>JTG Daugherty Racing, Chevrolet</strong></td>
<td style="width: 23.75%;height: 24px;text-align: center">No. 47 - Ricky Stenhouse Jr.</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 48px">
<td style="width: 29.2857%;height: 48px;text-align: center"><strong>Rick Ware Racing, Ford</strong></td>
<td style="width: 23.75%;height: 48px;text-align: center">No. 15 - Riley Herbst<br role="presentation" data-uw-rm-sr="" />No. 51 - Justin Haley</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24px">
<td style="width: 29.2857%;height: 24px;text-align: center"><strong>Wood Brothers Racing, Ford</strong></td>
<td style="width: 23.75%;height: 24px;text-align: center">No. 21 - Harrison Burton</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>The Grand Marshall and the Pre-race show at the Daytona 500, 2024</strong></h2>
The 2024 Daytona 500 will be a star-studded affair. This year, Hollywood actor and professional wrestler, Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson is set to perform the duties of the Grand Marshal.

As for the pre-race show, Trackhouse Racing Team co-owner Pitbull will light up the stage before the iconic race commences.<em> “It’s an honor to once again be part of the Great American Race, this time performing at the Daytona 500,”</em> Pitbull had said after the announcement was made.

[caption id="attachment_516696" align="alignnone" width="1920"]<img class="wp-image-516696 size-full" src="https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/20210116150513/GettyImages-1211216417.jpg" alt="Pitbull prior to the NASCAR Daytona 500" width="1920" height="1280" /> AVONDALE, ARIZONA - MARCH 08: Rapper Pitbull performs prior to the NASCAR Cup Series FanShield 500 at Phoenix Raceway in Avondale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)[/caption]
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>Tickets for the Daytona 500 2024</strong></h2>
For the first time in recent history, the tickets for the Daytona 500 race have been sold out. However, fans can still get a chance to witness the coveted race in person by buying reserved grandstands seats at the event's official ticketing partner, seatgeek.com. People looking for budget-friendly options have various alternatives, with the lowest being  $139 each for 1-4 tickets. For premium VIP packages, ticket prices range from $506 to $706 for 1-6 tickets. An important point to note is that the VIP packages will be inclusive of $25 food/beverage credit included with each ticket, FanZone passes featuring pre-race access to the track, and one Daytona 500 gift bundle per ticket holder.
<h2 style="text-align: center"><strong>Broadcasting of the Daytona 500</strong></h2>
The Daytona 500 race will be broadcast live on Fox and the FOX Sports App. Users who do not have a cable connection can also watch the race on live streaming platforms that include FOX, such as YouTube TV, Hulu+, fuboTV and Sling TV.

From where to get last-minute tickets to which drivers to expect on the racetrack, here's everything you need to know about the 2024 Daytona 500.

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