The 2026 ARCA Series kicked off with an exciting race at Daytona International Speedway on February 14, featuring the General Tire 200. The event was marked by multiple caution flags, extending the race to 84 laps and culminating in an overtime finish. Giovanni Ruggiero, a 19-year-old driver, claimed his first victory in the series, despite leading for just six laps—those being the most crucial of the race.
Ruggiero’s win followed a strong performance in the prior day’s Truck Series race, where he finished in second place. “Seeing the hard work pay off is amazing,” he remarked after his victory, highlighting the effort he has put into his racing career.
Local Drivers Shine Despite Challenges
DeLand native Daniel Dye had a busy weekend, competing in both races. After finishing 17th in the Truck Series event, he excelled in the ARCA race, placing fourth in his No. 24 ARCA Ford. Dye led the pack for 20 of the first 68 laps and successfully navigated the chaos that ensued, marking his first ARCA start since 2022, when he finished third at Daytona.
The weekend proved to be a stark contrast for McFarland, who had a rough start in the Truck Series, crashing out after just six laps. He rebounded in the General Tire 200, recovering from a lap down to finish just outside the top 10 in 11th place. This race marked his fifth start in the ARCA Series, showcasing his resilience after finishing 30th in the previous year’s Daytona race.
Challenges for Returning Drivers
The race also featured a significant return for Alli Owens, who made her comeback after a decade away from competitive racing. After completing 67 laps and running competitively just outside the top 10, her race ended prematurely when her engine failed, resulting in a 34th-place finish. Owens had not participated in an ARCA event since 2010 and had only competed in one O’Reilly Series race in 2016.
At 37 years old and a mother of three, Owens’ return to racing is a remarkable personal achievement, embodying the spirit of perseverance in the competitive sport. As the ARCA Series continues, her determination and passion for racing remain evident.
The General Tire 200 served as an exciting launchpad for the 2026 season, with emerging talents and seasoned drivers alike showcasing their skills at one of the most prestigious tracks in motorsports.
