Jeff Gordon, vice chairman of Hendrick Motorsports, praised William Byron’s unique drive and disciplined approach following Byron’s victory at the Martinsville Speedway race, a key moment in the 2024 Cup Series. In a media session after the win, Gordon reflected on Byron’s progression as the driver of HMS’s iconic #24 Chevy, highlighting just how extraordinary Byron’s preparations and mindset have been throughout his nearly decade-long Cup Series career. The focus of this discussion centers on Jeff Gordon on William Byron, as Byron secured his place in the high-stakes Championship Four and continued making headlines in the NASCAR community.
Byron’s Remarkable Climb with Hendrick Motorsports
William Byron, now 27, began his time with Hendrick Motorsports in 2018, stepping into the #24 Chevy that Gordon once drove. Since his rookie season, Byron has consistently posted strong results, quickly earning a reputation as one of the sport’s most capable young drivers. Over his tenure, Byron has repeatedly demonstrated an ability to compete at the sport’s highest level, qualifying for the Championship Four in consecutive seasons, including the current one.
In the recent Martinsville race, Byron not only clinched the pole position during qualifying but also led both stages, displaying dominance throughout the event. His standout performance propelled him to his first-ever fall victory at Martinsville Speedway—a crucial achievement that secured his advancement to the upcoming Championship Four race in Phoenix, scheduled for November 2, 2025.
Jeff Gordon’s High Praise for Byron’s Work Ethic
During the post-race media engagement, Jeff Gordon made it clear just how impressed he was with the dedication and focus William Byron brings to the track. Gordon emphasized that Byron’s commitment sets him apart from others and noted the mature approach Byron takes week after week.
“I know he’s matured, you know, he’s never lacked in effort. You know, I, you know, he’ll have to share with you what kinds of things he does every week, prepping for races, but it’s unlike anything I’ve ever seen. And you know, he’s just very, very narrowly focused on it. You know, he cuts out distractions and minimizes them, like, unlike.”
— Jeff Gordon, Vice Chairman, Hendrick Motorsports
“You know, we all have things in our life going on, but, you know, he’s, he’s just laser beam right now. And I think that it shows in his effort, his prep, you know, his relationship with his team and Rudy and everybody. And he had that fire today burning and was not going to hold him back,” he added.
— Jeff Gordon, Vice Chairman, Hendrick Motorsports
Jeff Gordon’s public acknowledgment of Byron’s laser-focused approach reflects not only his professional respect for Byron as his successor but also his appreciation for the entire team’s efforts, including crew chief Rudy Fugle and the rest of HMS. Gordon’s comments underscore how each member, from drivers to support staff, contributes to championship-level performances.
Byron’s Fall Triumph at Martinsville and Path to Phoenix
For the first time in his career, William Byron captured the fall win at Martinsville Speedway, a notable addition to his racing accomplishments. This victory instantly propelled him into the Championship Four, keeping his championship hopes alive heading into the decisive Phoenix showdown.
This milestone win marked yet another breakthrough for Byron, who joins a select group of drivers able to deliver under intense “must-win” conditions. The win also highlights Byron’s growing reputation as someone able to step up on NASCAR’s biggest stages, with both his driver skills and partnership with HMS’s legendary #24 seen as major assets for the team.
Jeff Gordon’s Return: An Enduring Legacy at HMS
Beyond his praise for William Byron, Jeff Gordon’s own history with Hendrick Motorsports is deeply woven into the organization’s fabric. Gordon started his career in the Cup Series with Hendrick, wearing the #24 throughout. After 25 years, four championship titles, and nearly unmatched consistency and success, he retired as a driver in 2015. Gordon then moved into broadcasting for FOX Sports, spending almost six years as a well-known NASCAR analyst.
In 2021, Gordon embraced a new chapter by returning to Hendrick Motorsports as vice chairman. Reflecting on this transition, he shared his emotional connection with the team and the sport:
“I cannot put into words what Hendrick Motorsports means to me. In many ways, it’s my home, and the people here are my family. I’ve never lost my passion for the organization, for our sport, and for the sheer challenge of racing and winning at the highest level. Being part of the competition is where I’m happiest and feel I can make the biggest contribution to the continued, long-term success of the team.”
— Jeff Gordon, Vice Chairman, Hendrick Motorsports
Gordon’s statistics as a driver are nothing short of remarkable: 93 wins, 325 top-five finishes, 475 top-ten finishes, and 81 pole positions from 797 career starts. His impact as a competitor and now as a leader at Hendrick anchors the team’s tradition of excellence, which contemporary drivers like William Byron continue to carry forward.
Looking Ahead: Byron, Gordon, and the Future of Hendrick Motorsports
With William Byron’s recent accomplishments and Jeff Gordon’s continued influence as vice chairman, Hendrick Motorsports stands well-positioned in the NASCAR landscape. Byron’s focused approach, guided by support from team members such as crew chief Rudy Fugle and the legacy of leaders like Gordon, sets the stage for strong performances in upcoming races, including the decisive event at Phoenix.
The ongoing collaboration between seasoned veterans and emerging stars at HMS embodies the competitive spirit found in NASCAR, attracting fans and adding excitement to each Cup Series season. As Byron prepares for the next challenge, the team’s blend of tradition and innovation will likely keep Hendrick Motorsports and the #24 Chevy in the spotlight as they pursue future championships.
