William Byron Survives Carnage, Wins 2024 Daytona 500

In a thrilling conclusion to the Daytona 500, William Byron clinched a career-defining victory, marking a significant milestone for Hendrick Motorsports during their 40th anniversary celebrations. The race was filled with excitement, particularly after a late restart on the 197th lap, where Byron managed to cross the start/finish line just as a caution was called due to Ross Chastain’s car careening into the infield grass, an incident triggered by contact with Austin Cindric’s Ford.

Byron’s teammate, Alex Bowman, was right behind him, ensuring a one-two finish for Hendrick Motorsports, and securing their first win in the iconic race since 2013, when Jimmie Johnson crossed the finish line ahead of Dale Earnhardt Jr. This victory marks the ninth for Hendrick in the Daytona 500, equaling Petty Enterprises for the most wins in the event’s storied history.

The race itself had been delayed from its original Sunday schedule to Monday because of inclement weather that brought heavy rain over the weekend.

Race Winner William Byron

“I’m just a kid from racing on computers and winning the Daytona 500.

“I can’t believe it. I wish my dad was here. He’s sick, but this is for him, man. We’ve been through so much, and we sat up in the grandstands together and watched the race (when Byron was younger). This is so freaking cool.”

“Obviously, hate what happened on that backstretch. I just got pushed and got sideways. But so proud of this team, whole Axalta team, 40th anniversary to the day, on Monday.

“Just extremely blessed and thankful for all the opportunities, and we just want to keep it going. We have a lot to prove this year, and this is a good start, obviously.”

Rick Hendrick, Hendrick Motorsports Team Owner

“I’m telling you, you couldn’t write the script any better. When we thought about coming down here the first time, we didn’t think we should be here, felt so out of place.

“We win this on our 40th anniversary to the day, it’s just… and tied a record now, so that’s awesome.”

Below is the image NASCAR used to declare William Byron the winner.

See more 2024 Daytona 500 photos.