DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (February 10, 2026) – Daytona International Speedway announced today that Cassie Donegan, Miss America 2026, will perform the National Anthem before the America 250 Florida Duel at DAYTONA on Thursday, Feb. 12.
“Having Miss America perform our national anthem before the America 250 Florida Duel at DAYTONA is a powerful way to celebrate the best of American tradition,” said Frank Kelleher, President of Daytona International Speedway. “This collaboration emphasizes the American pride rooted in this event and we can’t wait for our fans to experience what is sure to be an impactful moment of the race weekend right before we set the field for the 68th running of The Great American Race.”
In addition to her appearance in front of the America 250 Florida Duel at DAYTONA crowd to perform the National Anthem, Cassie will take part in several events at Daytona International Speedway and in the community leading up to the 68th running of The Great American Race.
“I grew up attending local races, some of which my uncle even drove in, and watching NASCAR regularly on the back porch with my great grandpa. Those were some of my favorite days of my childhood,” said Cassie Donegan, Miss America 2026. “So, getting to be at Daytona and perform the national anthem at the America 250 Florida Duel is beyond exciting. It feels full-circle and I can imagine my Papa would be just as thrilled as I am for this special moment. I cannot wait to be part of an event that celebrates a sport so many, my family especially, have loved for generations.”
Daytona International Speedway and the Miss America organization first announced their multi-year partnership at the 2026 Miss America competition in September 2025. This collaboration showcases how both American institutes are committed to inspiring impact, celebrating excellence, and strengthening communities nationwide.
Miss America joins a star-studded list of performers and dignitaries already announced for Speedweeks Presented by AdventHealth. GRAMMY Award-winning comedian Nate Bargatze will serve as the Grand Marshal for the 68th running of The Great American Race, while acclaimed actor Kurt Russell will be the honorary pace car driver. Country superstar Miranda Lambert will perform the pre-race show prior to the DAYTONA 500.
Fans can attend the America 250 Florida Duel at DAYTONA and witness Cassie perform her rendition of the National Anthem during Speedweeks Presented by AdventHealth. For ticket options and more information on the America 250 Florida Duel at DAYTONA, as well as all Speedweeks Presented by AdventHealth events, including the DAYTONA 500, log onto www.DAYTONA500.com or call 1-800-PITSHOP.