The outcome of the forty-fourth running of the Daytona 500, held in February of 2012 at Daytona International Speedway, marked a significant moment in NASCAR history. This race saw a dramatic conclusion under caution after a fiery crash involving Juan Pablo Montoya. The event was also notable for its later-than-usual date due to track repaving, and the use of pack racing tactics that contributed to multiple accidents.
Understanding the final standings of this race provides insights into the competitive landscape of NASCAR at the time. The results offer a snapshot of driver performance, team strategies, and the impact of the “two-car tandem” drafting technique then prevalent. The event also holds historical significance as the first Daytona 500 victory for the eventual winner, further solidifying his place in the sport’s annals. Furthermore, analyzing the race’s conclusion provides an opportunity to examine safety regulations and their evolution within the sport.