Rick Hendrick‘s insider speaks out after Daytona 500, sharing emotions from a race that kept fans on edge until the final moment. William Byron made history, but the victory didn’t come easy. Crew chief Rudy Fugle reflected on the tense moments leading up to the win, calling it “the greatest thing ever.” With a last-minute surge, the No. 24 team secured a stunning finish.
Key Highlights
- Rudy Fugle celebrated William Byron’s Daytona 500 win as the “greatest thing ever.”
- Fugle emphasized the team’s meticulous preparation and confidence during race week.
- Byron’s victory solidified his place among NASCAR legends as a two-time champion.
- The win was marked by a dramatic last-lap wreck that Byron skillfully navigated.
- Anticipation builds for the Ambetter Health 400 to see if Byron’s momentum continues.
Rudy Fugle Reflects on William Byron’s Historic Win
Rudy Fugle’s excitement was palpable as he reflected on William Byron’s remarkable victory at the Daytona 500, a race that holds a special place in the hearts of NASCAR fans everywhere.
“It is amazing. This one is setting in this morning […] When I woke up and staggered my way out to the car this morning, the sun was coming up over the beach and I’m like, ‘Man, we did it again.’ It’s pretty amazing.”
“It has just been a great week, you know, [we] had a lot of confidence… and to finish it off with a win, we’re lucky to be able to be in this whole sport.” – Rudy Fugle
🏆 "Man, we did it again […] just winning the #DAYTONA500 is the greatest thing ever."@Hendrick24Team crew chief Rudy Fugle says Sunday's win is starting to sink in. Plus, it's the second year in a row they have to give away their race-winning car to @DAYTONA for the year 🤣 pic.twitter.com/9EQbUkUp4P
— SiriusXM NASCAR Radio (Ch. 90) (@SiriusXMNASCAR) February 17, 2025
Speaking on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, Fugle conveyed the profound impact of this historic win, describing it as the “greatest thing ever.” The victory was not just a demonstration of Byron’s driving skill but also to the meticulous preparation of the No. 24 team.
“Just winning Daytona 500 is the greatest thing ever.” – Rudy Fugle
Fugle noted the team’s steadfast confidence throughout race week, highlighted by their strong performance with a runner-up finish in the Bluegreen Vacations Duel 1.
William Byron’s Back-to-Back Victory
In an electrifying display of skill and resolve, William Byron clinched a back-to-back victory at the Daytona 500, solidifying his place among the legends of NASCAR. This remarkable achievement places Byron among an elite cadre of multi-champions, joining the ranks of icons like Richard Petty and Jeff Gordon. His success emphasizes not only his talent but also his tenacity on the racetrack.
The Daytona 500, revered as the “Great American Race,” is the pinnacle of NASCAR competition, demanding exceptional skill over its grueling 200 laps and 500 miles. Byron’s consecutive wins at this prestigious event highlight his growing stature as the second-winningest active driver in the race, trailing only behind Denny Hamlin.
Such accomplishments speak volumes about his tactical insight and steadfast focus, qualities that resonate deeply with fans and fellow competitors similarly, elevating his status in the annals of motorsport history.
William Byron Commemorates Historic Win
William Byron’s victory at the Daytona 500 brought with it a wave of celebration and recognition. This success was not just another checkered flag for Byron; it was a moment steeped in tradition, as he etched his name permanently into Daytona’s rich history.
With the concrete still fresh, Byron left his hand and foot imprints, symbolizing a connection that goes beyond the race. This act commemorated his status as a two-time Daytona 500 champion, a feat that cements his legacy in NASCAR lore.
NASCAR Insider Dustin Long captured this historic moment, sharing it widely on X (formerly Twitter). The atmosphere was electric, as fans and fellow drivers similarly celebrated Byron’s achievement. His dedication and skill were on full display, ensuring his place among NASCAR’s elite.
“Two-time Daytona 500 champion William Byron signs his name in concrete next to his hand imprints and his foot imprint in Daytona’s Victory Lane.” – Dustin Long
#NASCAR … Two-time Daytona 500 champion William Byron signs his name in concrete next to his hand imprints and his foot imprint in Daytona’s Victory Lane pic.twitter.com/1rLxaD8jkM
— Dustin Long (@dustinlong) February 17, 2025
Race Recap and Next Stop
The Daytona 500 concluded with a dramatic twist that left fans on the edge of their seats—a heart-stopping last-lap wreck involving Denny Hamlin and Cole Custer.
As the chaos unfolded, William Byron, running sixth, skillfully navigated his way to the front, seizing the lead and securing an unforgettable victory. The race ended with Byron’s victorious surge to the checkered flag, trailed by an impressive lineup of competitors: Tyler Reddick, Jimmie Johnson, Chase Briscoe, and John Hunter Nemechek.
As the NASCAR circuit heads to Atlanta, all eyes will be on Byron to see if he can continue his winning momentum.
News in Brief: Rick Hendrick’s Insider Speaks Out After Daytona 500
As the dust settled on the Daytona 500, Rudy Fugle couldn’t contain his pride in William Byron’s impressive win. It was a day marked by precision, teamwork, and unyielding resolve, as Byron clinched the victory with a flawless performance.
This achievement celebrated Byron’s incredible skill and honored the relentless effort of his entire crew. With the roar of the crowd echoing in their hearts, the team enthusiastically looks forward to their next challenge, fueled by this exhilarating accomplishment.
