Daytona 500 2025: U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds perform flyover
The USAF Thunderbirds flew over Daytona International Speedway before The Great American Race on Sunday, Feb. 16, 2025.
John Gallas/USA TODAY NETWORK
Roaring engines aren’t just motoring around Daytona International Speedway this weekend. They’re soaring over the city, as well.
The Thunderbirds, the U.S. Air Force’s demonstration squadron, have been practicing their F-16C and F-16D Flying Falcon maneuvers and giving rides to drivers in preparation for Sunday’s Daytona 500.
The 2026 Daytona 500 will be the 16th consecutive year, and 17th overall, that the Thunderbirds will participate in the pre-race festivities.
“The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds flyover is one of the best traditions in all of sports and never fails to give you full body chills,” Frank Kelleher, Daytona International Speedway president, said in a news release. “It’s an honor to have them represent The Great American Race every year and their performance will fill the venue with pure American energy before we watch the green flag fly in the 68th running of the Daytona 500.”
The Thunderbirds are scheduled for an 8:30 a.m. practice on Saturday, Feb. 14, and the main event, the flyover during the pre-race ceremonies starting at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 15. The flyover will be closer to the 2:30 p.m. green flag.
Drivers John Hunter Nemechek and Connor Zilisch rode with the Thunderbirds in a Feb. 12 practice run.
“Checked something new off my bucket list today flying with the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds in an F-16!! So awesome,” Zilisch posted.
Nemechek, 28, drives the No. 42 Toyota with the Legacy Motor Club team. He starts 11th on Sunday.
Zilisch, 19, drives the No. 88 Chevrolet for Trackhouse Racing and will be 32nd in the starting lineup for the 500.
− Staff Writer Frank Fernandez contributed to this story.
