William Byron’s Martinsville victory in the Xfinity 500 has thrust Hendrick Motorsports back into the championship hunt, after Byron secured his third win of 2025 by outpacing Ryan Blaney late in the race. Crossing the finish line at Martinsville Speedway, Byron locked in his place among the elite Championship 4—joining Denny Hamlin, Chase Briscoe, and his teammate Kyle Larson—as the NASCAR Cup Series nears its highly anticipated finale.
This resounding performance not only highlighted Byron’s determination but also echoed the legacy of Jeff Gordon, Hendrick Motorsports’ vice chairman. Byron, driving the historic No. 24 Chevrolet, mirrored Gordon’s own storied successes, providing the team and its fans with a sense of fulfillment and forward momentum as the playoffs advance.
Byron’s Commanding Run Secures Title Hopes
After setbacks in previous Round of 8 races—losing a shot at victory in Las Vegas due to an incident with a slower car and spinning out late at Talladega—Byron arrived at Martinsville with determination. Taking pole position, he led an overwhelming 304 of the 500 laps, clearly demonstrating both his talent and readiness for high-pressure moments.
During the final segment, Byron mounted a chase against Ryan Blaney, currently considered the Cup Series’ top competitor, especially at the challenging Martinsville circuit. In the closing 43 laps, Byron executed a decisive pass by moving underneath Blaney in Turn 1, making slight contact and seizing the lead for good. His skillful handling during a subsequent late restart allowed him to maintain the top spot and ultimately take the checkered flag.
Jeff Gordon Applauds Byron’s Performance
Jeff Gordon, who now guides Hendrick Motorsports as vice chairman but remains a central figure in the No. 24 team’s history, expressed admiration for Byron’s racecraft and composure. After the event, he praised the young driver’s achievement:
“William Byron had the race of his career today,”
Gordon, a four-time champion and former HMS driver of the No. 24, said as he lauded the youngster’s gutsy performance.
Gordon, reminiscing about his own era of daring driving, continued his tribute after witnessing Byron’s handling of the last critical restart:
“I know it wasn’t a Daytona 500, but the way he raced was unbelievable. That last restart.. not only did he get the jump in the restart area, but he drove deep into Turn 1, went wide, turned it, and drove off.”
– Jeff Gordon, Vice Chairman, Hendrick Motorsports
Looking Ahead to Phoenix and Championship Destiny
Byron’s win not only adds a third notch to his 2025 season but also signals a resurgence for Hendrick Motorsports as they prepare for the high-stakes race at Phoenix. The showdown will feature fellow contenders Denny Hamlin, Chase Briscoe, and Kyle Larson, making for a dramatic conclusion. Blaney, despite leading 177 laps and controlling the middle stages after a pivotal Lap 272 restart, was unable to deny Byron his moment. The energy in the team’s garage and Byron’s evident determination suggest Hendrick Motorsports is well poised for the title challenge ahead.
With the Championship 4 set, Byron’s breakthrough Martinsville drive has established both his championship credentials and Hendrick’s optimism. The coming week will reveal whether Byron’s momentum can carry him to the ultimate NASCAR Cup Series triumph at Phoenix, building on a season that began with his inaugural Daytona victory and continued with steadfast resolve.
Jeff Gordon: "William Byron had the race of his career today. I know it wasn't a Daytona 500, but the way he raced was unbelievable. That last restart.. not only did he get the jump in the restart area, but he drove deep into turn 1, went wide, turned it, and drove off." #NASCAR pic.twitter.com/ajoJAQrfav
— Jeff Gordon Online (@JGinfo) October 27, 2025
