Jack and Sam Laidlow Win Both Daytona Sidecar Races

The British sidecar duo secured dual victories and a new lap record at the Daytona circuit this weekend.

Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Motorsports

Expressive sports illustration of a sidecar motorcycle team racing at high speed on a curved track with motion blur. — British brothers Jack and Sam Laidlow swept both sidecar races at Daytona this weekend, setting a new track lap record in the process. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Jack and Sam Laidlow claimed first place in both sidecar races at Daytona. The pair also set a new lap record at the track during their performance.

Why it matters

The victories follow a significant recovery for the team after Jack Laidlow sustained a broken ankle in a crash earlier this year. Their success highlights a competitive advantage despite using a smaller engine than many of their rivals.

The team competed using a 600cc engine, which is smaller than the 1,000cc limit permitted by the Daytona class rules. They secured pole position on Friday and maintained their speed to win on Saturday using slick tyres on a drying track.

The players

Jack Laidlow

He is a sidecar racer from Cumbria who recovered from an ankle injury to compete in the United States.

Sam Laidlow

He is the partner of Jack Laidlow and a member of the sidecar team that claimed two victories at Daytona.

The details

The team traveled to Florida after a sponsor facilitated the shipping of their 2024 championship bike to the United States. Despite the challenging transition and a previous injury, the duo managed to dominate the field across both race days.

April 2026: Jack Laidlow suffered a broken ankle in a crash.
Friday (October 2026): The team took pole position and won the opening race.
Saturday (October 2026): The team won the second race on a drying track.

Season Trajectory

This performance at Daytona cements the team's momentum following their previous victory at Barber Motorsports Park. By setting a new lap record, the duo has shifted expectations for their remaining competition schedule this year.

The team's success demonstrates that a 600cc engine remains highly competitive at Daytona even when 1,000cc machines are permitted. Spectators and enthusiasts should note the efficacy of slick tyre selection for changing track conditions.

The takeaway

The Laidlows serve as a prime example of overcoming mid-season injuries to maintain a competitive edge. Their ability to adapt their machinery to international tracks provides a blueprint for success for other touring motorsport teams.