William Byron’s victory in the 2024 Daytona 500 marks the third time Hendrick Motorsports has successfully defended a win in NASCAR’s most prestigious race. The team, known for its dominance in stock car racing, has a long history of success at Daytona International Speedway, and Byron’s triumph adds another chapter to its legacy.
Hendrick Motorsports first accomplished this feat in 1999 when Jeff Gordon secured back-to-back Daytona 500 wins for the team. Gordon, a four-time Cup Series champion and one of NASCAR’s all-time greats, had won the 1997 edition before teammate Dale Earnhardt Jr. took the checkered flag in 1998. However, Gordon reclaimed the title in 1999, ensuring that Hendrick Motorsports remained on top.
The second instance of Hendrick Motorsports defending a Daytona 500 win came in 2014, when Dale Earnhardt Jr. won the race, following Jimmie Johnson’s victory in 2013. Earnhardt Jr., one of the sport’s most popular drivers, delivered an emotional victory for the team and solidified its reputation as a powerhouse in superspeedway racing.
Now, in 2024, William Byron has continued this tradition by winning the Daytona 500 after teammate Ricky Stenhouse Jr. claimed victory in 2023. Byron, driving the No. 24 Chevrolet—Gordon’s iconic former car number—showcased his skill and determination by holding off a competitive field to take the checkered flag. His win not only cements his status as a rising star in NASCAR but also underscores Hendrick Motorsports’ continued excellence in the sport.
With this latest achievement, Hendrick Motorsports further establishes itself as one of the most successful organizations in NASCAR history. The team, owned by Rick Hendrick, now boasts multiple Daytona 500 wins across different eras, with legendary drivers contributing to its dominance. As Byron joins the ranks of past Daytona winners under the Hendrick banner, his victory serves as a testament to the team’s ability to maintain its winning culture.
As the 2024 NASCAR season unfolds, Byron’s Daytona 500 victory will serve as a momentum boost for Hendrick Motorsports. The team’s ability to defend its titles at Daytona highlights its strength, and fans will be eager to see if Byron and his teammates can continue their success throughout the year.
