William Byron ended Hendrick Motorsports’ decade-long winless streak at the Daytona 500. In their 40th season in the Cup series, the highly accomplished NASCAR team had a phenomenal start with their young star securing his first race victory. Byron led the race with his teammate close behind him on the final caution.
This win is significant as it marks HMS’s first triumph at the Daytona 500 in over ten years. Their previous victory occurred exactly ten years ago in 2014, thanks to a NASCAR Hall of Famer. It also signifies a breakthrough for Byron, who had struggled to complete a single 500-mile race at the Florida track in his Cup career.
Interestingly, this race was the first in years where an HMS driver didn’t start on the pole or even in the front row. Even the best qualifier at Daytona, Bowman, couldn’t make it to the top 5. However, Byron showcased his skill and resilience throughout the race, keeping his composure and control of his car to secure the win.
He encountered a major incident that he initiated with Bowman eight laps before the finish. Despite losing control and making contact with another driver, Byron managed to regain control of his car and escape unscathed. He also survived the final caution clash, which Bowman also caused, to maintain his lead before the caution was called.
For Byron, who entered NASCAR after a successful career in sim-racing, winning the Daytona 500 is a dream come true. This victory, his 11th in the Cup series, solidifies his position as the driver to beat in the upcoming 2024 season and provides redemption after failing to win the championship last year despite winning six races.
Reflecting on his win, Byron expressed his gratitude for being the driver who gave HMS their 40th-anniversary race victory on the exact day. He is determined to continue pushing forward and has a lot to prove in the 2024 season.
“We are incredibly proud of this team, the entire Axalta team. It’s amazing to win on the 40th anniversary of the team on a Monday. I feel extremely blessed and grateful for all the opportunities, and we just want to maintain the momentum. We have a lot to prove this year, and this victory is a fantastic start,” Byron said.
According to the Source firstsportz.com
