Ford to Host Veterans Day Classic at Daytona

NASCAR drivers will compete in military-themed teams using Ford Mustang Dark Horse R vehicles on November 11.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Motorsports

Ford to Host Veterans Day Classic at Daytona

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Do you believe exhibition sporting events are an effective way to honor military service?

Ford is set to host the Proud to Honor Veterans Day Classic on November 11 at Daytona International Speedway. The exhibition event features NASCAR drivers competing in teams to honor branches of the United States military.

Why it matters

The event serves as a tribute to the United States military by showcasing drivers in a high-performance setting. It connects motorsport fans with various service branches through a structured exhibition race.

A total of 12 drivers will represent each military branch, with participants operating identical Ford Mustang Dark Horse R vehicles. Each of these drivers will be organized into teams consisting of two participants.

The players

Ford

An American multinational automobile manufacturer that produces a wide range of consumer and performance vehicles.

Daytona International Speedway

A world-renowned race track in Florida known for hosting major NASCAR events, including the Daytona 500.

Austin Cindric

A professional stock car racing driver who currently competes full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series.

Joey Logano

A prominent American professional stock car racing driver and a multi-time NASCAR Cup Series champion.

Brad Keselowski

A veteran NASCAR driver and team owner who won the 2012 NASCAR Cup Series championship.

The details

Drivers including Austin Cindric, Frankie Muniz, Joey Hand, and Brad Keselowski are among those set to compete for their respective military branches. The field will utilize the track at Daytona International Speedway to complete the exhibition.

The Proud to Honor Veterans Day Classic is scheduled for November 11.

Season Trajectory

This exhibition marks a departure from the traditional NASCAR Cup Series race format by prioritizing military representation over standard season competition. The event provides a unique platform outside of the points-paying schedule for teams to engage with fans.

Attendees can observe how specific NASCAR drivers perform behind the wheel of the Ford Mustang Dark Horse R platform. The event structure separates drivers into military-aligned teams, shifting the focus from individual team standings to branch-based representation.

The takeaway

This event offers fans a chance to see professional drivers in an exhibition format that honors service members. It serves as a practical demonstration of the Ford Mustang Dark Horse R vehicle's capabilities on the track.