Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, FL — February 14, 2021
One of the most anticipated Daytona 500’s in years kicked off this afternoon at Daytona International Speedway. Just 13 laps in, what racing fans call “the Big One” happened.
After an early caution for a shredded tire, green flag racing resumed with Kevin Harvick(4) and Aric Almirola(10) in a two-car tandem at the front of the field while the rest of the pack divided into three-wide racing behind them. On lap 14 Kyle Busch(18) was bump drafting with teammate Christopher Bell(20), an aggressive push sent Bell into the rear bumper of Almirola. The impact shot Almirola sideways where he locked up with Bowman sending both cars nose-first into the Turn 3 wall.
With the incident occurring at the front of the field, total chaos ensued. A total of 16 vehicles were involved in the crash. Kurt Busch(1), Ryan Blaney(6), Tyler Reddick(8), Ryan Blaney(12), Chris Buescher(17), Bell, Martin Truex Jr.(19), Matt DeBenedetto(21), Byron, David Ragan(36), Anthony Alfredo(38), Erik Jones(43), Jamie McMurray(77), and Daniel Suarez(99) joined the wreck along with Almirola and Bowman.
Two laps later, with severe weather in the area, the race was red-flagged. The forecast is not promising as rain is expected for hours in the Daytona area.
The Lasco Press coverage of the “Great American Race” will resume when the track crews return the 2.5-mile tri-oval to racing conditions. The story will be updated. Featured Photos / NASCAR Media
