As the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series heads back to Daytona International Speedway for its second and final appearance this season, seasoned driver and commentator Kevin Harvick shared his predictions and analysis for the upcoming race. Harvick, speaking on his “Happy Hour” podcast, picked a 23XI Racing driver to secure his first win of the season at the highly anticipated Coke Zero Sugar 400, set to take place at Daytona International Speedway on Sunday.
In his detailed analysis, Harvick singled out Bubba Wallace, the 23XI Racing driver, as his top choice to take the checkered flag at Daytona’s summer race on Saturday, August 24. Harvick emphasized that the historic track could provide the perfect opportunity for Wallace, who has shown strong performances recently, to claim victory. Harvick praised Wallace’s current mindset and the momentum he has built since returning from the break, making Daytona a potentially favorable track for him.
On his podcast, Harvick stated, “Bubba Wallace. I just, you know, they ran well enough today at Michigan to be able to put themselves in the conversation, but I love where he’s at mentally. I just love his space right now and just the things that he’s doing and the way that they’ve come back from the break and performed. And I think Daytona is a good track for him.”
Co-host Kaitlyn Vincie, however, favored Kyle Busch to break his winless streak at Daytona, expressing that it would be hard to imagine a postseason without him. Meanwhile, Mamba Smith chose Austin Dillon, hoping for some excitement at the track known for its unpredictability.
Wallace’s track record at Daytona includes nine top-five and eleven top-ten finishes in 21 starts, with an average finish of 11.1. This season, he has earned five top-five and nine top-ten finishes, including a runner-up spot at the All-Star Race, positioning him just outside the playoff threshold in 17th place, one point behind Ross Chastain.
Fans can watch Kevin Harvick’s pick, Bubba Wallace, and others in action at the Coke Zero Sugar 400 on Saturday, August 24, at 7:30 pm ET.