William Byron achieved a remarkable milestone on Sunday at Martinsville Speedway, executing a historic William Byron playoff race sweep by winning the Cup Series playoff event in dominant fashion. Byron captured the lead from Ryan Blaney with 43 laps remaining and maintained his advantage, securing his place in the Championship 4 after a high-stakes battle at the Virginia track.
Byron Establishes New Standard with Triple Achievement
Throughout the race, Byron led 304 laps, outperforming all other contenders and demonstrating complete control on the short track. In doing so, he became the first driver to start from pole position, claim victory in every stage, and win the overall race during a playoff event.
Today William Byron became the first Cup Series driver to start on pole, sweep the stages, and win in a playoff race. pic.twitter.com/JK9un1ONW2— Daniel Céspedes (@_DanielCespedes) October 26, 2025
Both Byron and Blaney were under immense pressure, facing virtual must-win scenarios to advance, but Byron showcased precision and composure, managing each restart and turn to maintain his lead through to the checkered flag.
Driver Reflects on Career-Best Performance
After the race, Byron expressed how well the car handled and what it meant to deliver under pressure.
From start to finish, it’s the best I’ve ever felt in the race car. And that’s a damn good feeling,
Byron said.
From start to finish, it’s the best I’ve ever felt in the race car. And that’s a damn good feeling.
— William Byron, Driver
The victory was especially meaningful considering the challenges he faced earlier in the season, and Byron acknowledged the hard work and moments of disappointment that preceded this achievement.
Byron Joins Elite Ranks for Championship 4
With this win, Byron earned one of the coveted spots in the Championship 4, where he will compete against Denny Hamlin, Chase Briscoe, and Kyle Larson for the 2025 Cup Series title. This marks the third year in a row that Byron has reached the final round, but according to observers and Byron himself, this path was far smoother compared to previous efforts.
The impact of Byron’s dominant performance at Martinsville will be felt as he heads into the championship race with momentum and confidence. His display of skill and determination on Sunday sets a high benchmark for his competitors, and the historic William Byron playoff race sweep has not only advanced his own prospects but also left a lasting mark on NASCAR’s playoff history.
Today William Byron became the first Cup Series driver to start on pole, sweep the stages, and win in a playoff race. pic.twitter.com/JK9un1ONW2
— Daniel Céspedes (@_DanielCespedes) October 26, 2025
I asked @WilliamByron if he just drove the best race of his career. Very thoughtful answer here:
"From start to finish, it's the best I've ever felt in the race car. And that's a damn good feeling.
"It's been a lot of work. It's been a lot of heartbreak this year. You just…
— Jeff Gluck (@jeff_gluck) October 26, 2025
