By: Chris Vinel
February 10, 2026
The relationship between Miss America and Daytona International Speedway continues.
On Tuesday, Feb. 12, the Speedway announced Cassie Donegan, Miss America 2026, will sing the national anthem before Thursday’s Duels.
The 28-year-old Virginia native, who was Miss New York 2025, joins this week’s star-studded cast. Comedian Nate Bargatze will serve as Daytona 500 grand marshal, actor Kurt Russell will pilot the pace car, and country artist Miranda Lambert will perform the pre-race concert Sunday.
“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,” Donegan said in a press release. “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.”
Donegan was crowned Miss America in September, succeeding Abbie Stockard. The Belmont University graduate has competed in pageantry since she was 9.
Stockard appeared at the 2025 Rolex 24 as an honorary event official. Her predecessor, Madison Marsh, acted as pace car driver for the 2024 Great American Race.
Daytona and the Miss America organization unveiled a multi-year partnership last September. Speedway President Frank Kelleher participated as a celebrity judge in the 2026 Miss America Competition.
“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,” Kelleher said. “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.”
The first 150-mile Duel qualifier race is scheduled for 7 p.m. The second will follow at 8:45 p.m.
Read the article HERE: https://www.news-journalonline.com/story/sports/nascar/2026/02/10/daytona-500-miss-america-cassie-donegan-national-anthem/88604625007/
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