The Daytona 500, often dubbed the “Great American Race”, is not only a pinnacle in the NASCAR calendar but also offers one of the most lucrative purses in motorsports. Every February, the sport’s top drivers battle it out for a chance to win on stock car racing’s most prestigious stage and take home a hefty paycheck. This year, the 2025 Daytona 500 purse has reached new heights, making it the largest in the race’s celebrated history.
With a record-breaking $30,331,250 up for grabs, as reported by Bob Pockrass in a tweet, all eyes are on who will claim the lion’s share of this massive prize pool.
Anticipated Earnings for the Winner and Top Finishers
While NASCAR no longer releases exact payouts for each position, previous trends suggest that the 2025 Daytona 500 winner could take home between $2.4 million and $3 million.
Second place will likely earn around $1.5 million, while third through fifth-place finishers can expect payouts between $500,000 and $1 million.
Purses for Daytona weekend (Daytona 500 purse would include duels) and includes all payouts, all positions, plus charter payouts in Cup for competing and past two years points finish:
Cup: $30,331,250
Xfinity: $3,762,952
Truck: $1,262,900
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) February 11, 2025
Top 5 Favourites to Win the 2025 Daytona 500
The 2025 race is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory, with several big names expected to fight for the victory. Here are the top five favourites heading into the Great American Race:
- Kyle Busch: Despite nearly two decades of trying, Busch is still searching for his first Daytona 500 win. He’s the betting favourite this year, and someone who has led the most number of laps at the Daytona 500 (342 to be exact), this could finally be his moment.
- Denny Hamlin: A three-time Daytona 500 winner, Hamlin has mastered the art of superspeedway racing. He thrives in high-stakes situations, and with his experience, he remains a serious contender.
- Bubba Wallace: Maybe a bit of a controversial take, but Wallace secured a Duel win ahead of the race on Sunday in a commanding fashion, proving that both he and his 23XI Racing Toyota are dialed in for Sunday’s race. With a clear focus and confidence both mentally and physically, this could be his breakthrough moment in the Daytona 500.
- Joey Logano: A past winner of the “Great American Race” and one of the sport’s most aggressive drivers, Logano knows how to put himself in the right position when it counts.
- William Byron: Last year’s Daytona 500 champion is back to defend his crown. With a fast Hendrick Motorsports Chevy, he’s one to watch out for.
With history, prestige, and an enormous payday on the line, the 2025 Daytona 500 is set to be an all-out battle to the chequered flag.
