Ross Chastain wins the pole for NASCAR’s regular-season finale at Daytona

Brad Keselowski is counting on a miracle at NASCAR's Daytona International Speedway to secure a spot in the Cup Series playoffs. The 2012 champion candidly admitted, "My car needs like a miracle." His teammate, Ryan Preece, echoed the sentiment, stating that simply trying to win stages and races is his ultimate goal. Both Keselowski and Preece are among five drivers competing for the final three playoff spots at the 400-mile race.

Bubba Wallace, Austin Cindric, and Shane van Gisbergen are also vying for postseason berths. These five drivers will be the focus of the 10-race Chase for the championship. NASCAR's playoff format has changed, meaning drivers who win races during the regular season no longer automatically secure a postseason berth. Keselowski expressed that his team is closely monitoring the situation, as a win in the finale could be financially beneficial.

With Bubba Wallace and Austin Cindric likely locked into the playoffs, van Gisbergen and Preece are the only drivers battling for the 16th and final spot. Van Gisbergen currently leads Preece by 31 points, a margin that could change rapidly. The upcoming race at Daytona will be influenced by new horsepower and aerodynamic changes mandated by NASCAR, which may lead to intense competition and unpredictable outcomes.