NASCAR expands Sprint Unlimited field

The grid for the pre-season exhibition race just got a little bigger.

NASCAR has opted to expand the field for the 2015 running of the pre-season exhibition race known as the Sprint Unlimited, which takes place at Daytona International Speedway. The 75-lap sprint offers no points and will kick off the new season on February 14th.

Eligibility ranges. All 16 drivers who qualified for this past year's Chase, all 2014 pole winners, as well as past Daytona 500 pole winners and victors of the Sprint Unlimited may compete. The only condition for former winners/pole-sitters being that they must have competed full-time in the previous season of racing.

The 2015 Sprint Unlimited has potential to be one of the most competitive ever

NASCAR's Steve O’Donnell

There must be at least 25 cars in the race, so if these requirements don't fill the field, then NASCAR reverts to drivers highest in points from the previous year who are not yet eligible. This rule will not needed for 2015, but MWR announced earlier today that Brian Vickers will miss that event (and the 500 itself) due to persisting 'health issues.'

“The 2015 Sprint Unlimited has potential to be one of the most competitive ever,” said NASCAR Executive Vice President and Chief Racing Development Officer Steve O’Donnell. “With more drivers eligible, the intensity level increases for our fans and competitors, making for a compelling start to the 2015 season.”