Van Gisbergen leads at Daytona before 17-car pile up derails 500 charge

The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season roared to life at the iconic Daytona International Speedway, where the Daytona 500 once again delivered drama, destruction and a chaotic finish that will be replayed for years to come. Before the green flag even waved, there was movement in the field. Ross Chastain, Daniel Suarez, Chris Buescher and …