Greg Van Alst returning to Daytona with Maples Motorsports for ARCA opener

MOORESVILLE, N.C. – Maples Motorsports (MMS) announced today that 2023 ARCA Menards Series Daytona winner Greg Van Alst will return to Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway for the General Tire 200, scheduled for February 14, 2026.

Van Alst will pilot the No. 19 Chevrolet SS for Maples Motorsports in the season-opening event of the ARCA Menards Series, marking his return to the superspeedway where he captured his career-defining victory three years ago.

A proven contender on superspeedways, Van Alst’s Daytona return underscores both his continued passion for competition and his determination to once again contend for victory on one of stock car racing’s biggest stages.

Reflecting on the opportunity to return to Daytona with a new team, Van Alst expressed enthusiasm about the partnership and any challenges ahead.

“Daytona will always be special to me,” said Van Alst. “Winning there in 2023 was a moment I’ll never forget, and having the opportunity to go back with Maples Motorsports is something I’m really excited about.

“The team has been working hard, and I’m motivated to put us in a position to compete for a strong result, if not a win, in the season opener.”

Maples Motorsports owner and ARCA Menards Series driver Michael Maples echoed that confidence, citing Van Alst’s experience and proven superspeedway success as key assets for the program.

“Having Greg race with our team is very special for our program,” offered Maples. “He’s always been extremely strong on superspeedways, and Daytona speaks for itself. We’re excited to give him a fast car and watch him go to work.”

While the Daytona International Speedway season opener is currently Van Alst’s only confirmed start with Maples Motorsports in 2026, the team has not ruled out the possibility of additional appearances later in the season.