Due to lightning this afternoon, qualifying for the NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Daytona International Speedway was canceled, resulting in the starting positions being assigned according to the official rulebook. As a result, Connor Zilisch will begin the race from the pole position, holding a perfect metric score of 1.000, with Sam Mayer joining him on the front row. This structure sets the stage for the much-anticipated event at Daytona tonight.
Detailed Starting Grid for the Upcoming Daytona Race
The official lineup for the NASCAR Xfinity Series at Daytona on August 22, 2025, places Connor Zilisch in the top spot, followed closely by Sam Mayer. The next eight positions feature drivers Sammy Smith, Austin Hill, Justin Allgaier, Carson Kvapil, Brandon Jones, Harrison Burton, Christian Eckes, and Jesse Love, with metric scores guiding their place in the grid. Notably, Zilisch is making this start just two weeks after his recent victory, carrying significant momentum into the race.
The full top 10 starting lineup includes:
1. Connor Zilisch (1.000)
2. Sam Mayer (2.300)
3. Sammy Smith (4.200)
4. Austin Hill (4.300)
5. Justin Allgaier (4.800)
6. Carson Kvapil (5.300)
7. Brandon Jones (8.700)
8. Harrison Burton (10.300)
9. Christian Eckes (10.400)
10. Jesse Love (11.000)
The grid continues with drivers Dean Thompson, Brennan Poole, Jeb Burton, Taylor Gray, Rajah Caruth, Jeremy Clements, Daniel Dye, and others rounding out the field of 42 competitors.
Current Standings Highlight Key Drivers Ahead of Daytona
Before the race at Daytona, Connor Zilisch leads the standings sharply, with six wins putting him well ahead of competitors like Justin Allgaier and Austin Hill, each with three victories. Sam Mayer, Jesse Love, Brandon Jones, Sammy Smith, and Nick Sanchez, all with one win apiece, also remain prominent contenders in the series. Points gaps are significant, with drivers like Carson Kvapil and Sheldon Creed holding solid positions just outside the current playoff cutline.
Anticipation Builds Ahead of Daytona Race Night
With the lineup now officially confirmed and top drivers positioned favorably, the NASCAR Xfinity Series Daytona race promises intense competition. Connor Zilisch’s front-row start after his recent success adds an exciting narrative to watch, while the reshuffling caused by weather delays could influence team strategies. Fans and teams alike await this pivotal event at Daytona International Speedway to see how the season’s momentum continues to unfold.