Chase Elliott surged to victory in the second Duel at Daytona on Thursday night, capturing the win in the 150-mile qualifying race and locking in his starting position on the outside of the second row for Sunday’s Daytona 500.
Elliott made a move to the front in the closing laps at Daytona, getting help from Carson Hocevar and Kyle Larson to secure the checkered flag in the final qualifying race for the season-opening event.
Behind him, the most dramatic storyline centered on Anthony Alfredo, who raced his way into the Daytona 500 in the Beard Motorsports No. 62.
The result sends Beard Motorsports back into the Great American Race and marks a significant moment for Alfredo’s career, who will compete in NASCAR’s biggest event after missing it last year.
For BJ McLeod and JJ Yeley, the night ended in disappointment. Both drivers failed to secure a transfer spot and will not compete in Sunday’s Daytona 500.
Elliott’s victory adds momentum for the 2020 Cup Series champion as he prepares for the sport’s most marquee event. Elliott is looking to win his first Daytona 500.
