DAYTONA BEACH, FL (March 9, 2026) – The 2026 Daytona 200 marked a defining moment for the racing community and for Droplight, the cultural engine backing the next generation of fearless competitors and brand builders. In one of the most historic finishes in the race’s nearly century-long history, Droplight-supported riders dominated the podium storylines, with rising star Kayla Yaakov making history as the first woman ever to finish on the Daytona 200 podium, while veteran champion Josh Herrin captured his fourth consecutive Daytona 200 victory.
At just 18 years old, Yaakov delivered a breakthrough performance in only her second Daytona 200 start, finishing third overall and cementing her place as one of the most promising young talents in American motorsports. Competing with Rahal Ducati Moto, Yaakov’s performance signals a powerful shift in the sport and highlights the new generation of racers redefining what’s possible on two wheels.
“Kayla represents exactly the kind of athlete we believe in at Droplight,” said Droplight leadership. “She’s fearless, disciplined, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in motorsport. Watching her make history at the Daytona 200 is a moment we’re incredibly proud to be part of.”
The race also saw Josh Herrin continue his legendary run at Daytona. The multi-time MotoAmerica champion powered to his fourth straight Daytona 200 victory, further solidifying his legacy as one of the most dominant riders in the history of the event. Herrin’s win places him among the elite names ever to conquer the famed 200-mile race at Daytona International Speedway. Herrin is sponsored by Desnuda Organic Tequila, a Droplight powered portfolio company.
“Josh embodies everything we love about racing. Discipline, passion, and pushing limits,” said a spokesperson for Desnuda Organic Tequila, Herrin’s sponsor. “Seeing Desnuda in victory lane at the Daytona 200 is an incredible moment for our brand and our partners.”
For Droplight, the historic weekend reflects the ethos at the heart of the company: backing the relentless, the risk-takers, and the innovators who refuse to slow down. From tequila to tech, the mission remains the same: build brands that move. Droplight provides expert-level support across the full business ecosystem, helping companies run cleaner, scale faster, and push further. When vision meets velocity, brands ignite.
About Kayla Yaakov
Kayla Yaakov is an 18 year old professional motorcycle racer competing with Rahal Ducati Moto in MotoAmerica. She has quickly become one of the most promising young talents in American road racing. In 2026, Yaakov made history by becoming the first woman ever to finish on the podium at the Daytona 200, one of the most prestigious motorcycle races in the world. Known for her aggressive riding style and composure under pressure, Yaakov represents the next generation of talent in global motorsports.
About Josh Herrin
Josh Herrin is one of the most accomplished motorcycle racers in American road racing. A multi time MotoAmerica champion and Daytona 200 winner, Herrin competes with Rahal Ducati Moto and is known for his aggressive riding style and race craft on some of the most demanding tracks in the world. Herrin continues to add to his legacy with another Daytona 200 victory, one of the most prestigious wins in global motorcycle racing.
About Droplight
Droplight is a cultural engine that builds brands, accelerates founders, and connects the worlds of racing, culture, and innovation under one pulse. We back the relentless, the risk-takers, the ones who keep the pedal down and build brands that were meant to stay in motion.
About Desnuda Organic Tequila
Desnuda Organic Tequila is a premium tequila crafted from 100% organic blue Weber agave and produced in Mexico using traditional methods. Each bottle is hand crafted and hand forged, making every piece unique and reflecting the brand’s commitment to intentional design, authenticity, and craftsmanship. Desnuda Organic Tequila is created for moments of connection, from intimate gatherings to cultural and sporting events around the world.