McDowell Beats 100-1 Odds for Upset Daytona 500 Victory

Michael McDowell celebrates after winning the NASCAR Daytona 500 auto race at Daytona International Speedway, in Daytona Beach, Fla., on Feb. 15, 2021. John Raoux/AP Photo

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla.—Michael McDowell was glued to Brad Keselowski’s bumper, watching and waiting for his chance to win the Daytona 500.

Joey Logano was the leader, the laps were winding down and yet no one had the nerve to pull out of traffic. McDowell was certain Keselowski would go for it eventually, and when he did, McDowell would play his hand.