NASCAR’s most prestigious race, the Daytona 500, is facing its most complex qualifying scenario in years, with a potential 41-car field and the largest number of entrants in a decade.

While 36 teams are guaranteed spots through their charter status, nine drivers are competing for the remaining spots in what promises to be an intense qualification battle.

Adding intrigue to this year’s qualifying format is four-time Indianapolis 500 winner Helio Castroneves, who benefits from NASCAR’s new “world-class driver” provisional rule. While this guarantees him a spot, there’s a financial catch: using the provisional means forfeiting prize money. This creates an interesting dynamic where Castroneves will attempt to qualify traditionally first, potentially expanding the field to 41 cars if he fails.

The list of hopefuls includes some prominent names in motorsport. Seven-time Cup champion Jimmie Johnson, now a team owner, will attempt to make his 22nd Daytona 500 appearance in a car featuring a paint scheme with input from NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal. Former Cup champion Martin Truex Jr., despite retiring from full-time competition, returns for another shot at the one major victory that has eluded him in 20 attempts.

The remaining contenders represent a mix of experience and emerging talent. Justin Allgaier, fresh from his Xfinity Series championship, represents Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s JR Motorsports in their first Daytona 500 attempt. Corey LaJoie, coming off a career-best fourth-place finish last year, seeks his ninth consecutive start in the Great American Race.

Read more: NASCAR’s new ’world-class driver’ rule makes Daytona 500 qualifying more complicated than ever

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