2026 has proven to be an intriguing season for NASCAR enthusiasts who appreciate the historical significance of car numbers in victory lane. From Tyler Reddick making history with the No. 45 at the Daytona 500 to Carson Hocevar and Ty Gibbs securing milestone victories, the season has been rich with numerical achievements. However, one of the most compelling narratives emerged with Corey Heim’s unexpected triumphs, marking the first-ever Cup Series wins for the No. 67.
Yet, the most profound connection to NASCAR’s history lies with the No. 60. Ryan Preece achieved his first-career NASCAR Cup Series win at Daytona, a milestone that not only secured his spot in the Chase but also brought a historic car number back into the spotlight. The No. 60 had competed in over 400 Cup races, but prior to Preece’s triumph, it had only tasted victory once—76 years prior, during just the sixth race the number ever entered.
76 years later, a champion’s number returns to Victory Lane
Ryan Preece, RFK Racing
Photo by: James Gilbert / Getty Images
The previous victory for the No. 60 occurred on May 30, 1950, when Bill Rexford won the “Poor Man’s 500” at Canfield Speedway, a half-mile dirt track in Ohio. Driving the No. 60, the 23-year-old led 80 of 200 laps to secure the win by over two laps. This singular victory propelled Rexford to win the 1950 NASCAR Cup Series championship, making him the youngest champion in the series’ history at the time—a record that stood for decades. Despite his historic achievement, Rexford remains the only Cup champion not enshrined in the NASCAR Hall of Fame, often referred to as the sport’s “forgotten champion.” During his championship season, Rexford utilized the No. 60 in seven of his 17 starts, alongside several other numbers.
Bill Rexford in 1951
Photo by: Ron Pollock Collection
With Preece’s victory in 2026, the No. 60 now boasts two Cup wins, bridging a gap of 76 years. While Rexford still holds the record for the most laps led in a single race with the number, Preece has shown the capability to challenge that mark. After a 13-year absence from the Cup Series, RFK Racing brought the No. 60 back to part-time action in 2024 before elevating it to a full-time entry in 2025. As the numbers in the 60s range continue to make history in 2026, Preece’s journey with the No. 60 represents a compelling blend of modern ambition and historic legacy, echoing the improbable championship runs of the past.
Bill Rexford in 1950
Photo by: ISC Images & Archives via Getty Images
Watch: Preece wins in chaotic Daytona finish for first points-paying victory
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