In a groundbreaking moment for NASCAR, Jeff Gordon, the legendary driver and current vice chairman of Hendrick Motorsports, has officially crowned William Byron as the heir to the number 24 car – a seat that was once the domain of Gordon himself. This endorsement comes after an extraordinary run by Byron, who has just won back-to-back Daytona 500s in 2024 and 2025, solidifying his place as one of NASCAR’s brightest stars.
Gordon’s statement, “I can’t imagine seeing anybody ever drive the 24 again other than William in the future,” represents more than just a casual remark. It’s a profound declaration of trust and belief in Byron’s ability to uphold the legacy of one of the sport’s most iconic numbers. For many, this may come as a surprise, given the weight of the number 24 in NASCAR history. But for those familiar with the trajectory of Byron’s career, Gordon’s endorsement feels like the natural progression of a unique bond between mentor and protégé.
The Legacy of Jeff Gordon and the Number 24
To understand the significance of Gordon’s trust in Byron, we must first reflect on the legacy of the number 24. Gordon’s career, which began in 1992 with Hendrick Motorsports, transformed NASCAR and made the 24 car one of the most recognizable symbols in the sport. With 93 Cup Series wins, four championships, 81 pole positions, and an unbroken streak of 797 consecutive starts, Gordon set a high bar. His success wasn’t just statistical; his colorful DuPont Chevrolet and his crossover appeal brought new fans to NASCAR, expanding its reach from a regional pastime to a mainstream phenomenon.
As the sport’s winningest road course driver and holder of multiple Daytona 500 victories, Gordon became synonymous with NASCAR’s rise to prominence. His legacy is not just about numbers but also about his cultural impact—he was the first NASCAR driver to host Saturday Night Live and even voiced a character in the Cars films.
William Byron’s Modern NASCAR Journey
William Byron, a 27-year-old driver, represents a new era of NASCAR talent. Unlike many drivers who grew up on the track, Byron’s journey to the 24 car started in the digital world of iRacing. He honed his racing instincts on a virtual platform before moving to real-world competition. Byron quickly ascended through the ranks, winning the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series and the 2017 Xfinity Series Championship, before making his debut with Hendrick Motorsports in 2018.
The transition to the iconic number 24 car was no small feat. The pressure of following in Gordon’s footsteps could have been overwhelming for many young drivers. Yet, Byron has handled the challenge with grace, achieving notable wins and steadily building his own legacy. His back-to-back Daytona 500 wins in 2024 and 2025, including a dramatic victory in 2025 where he navigated through a crash on the final lap, further cemented his place among NASCAR’s elite.
Gordon’s Mentorship and Byron’s Growth
What makes the relationship between Gordon and Byron so compelling is their deep mutual respect. Gordon, now the vice chairman of Hendrick Motorsports, has played a significant role in Byron’s development. In the Road to the Championship series, Gordon shared his admiration for Byron, describing him as a focused, hardworking driver with a relentless drive to improve. Gordon’s belief in Byron extends beyond his performance on the track—it’s about his work ethic, his passion for racing, and his ability to learn quickly.
Byron’s recent Daytona 500 win marked a personal milestone—he became the youngest driver to win the prestigious race twice, surpassing Gordon’s record. When asked about the prospect of his records being broken, Gordon’s response was nothing short of supportive: “I hope he breaks them all.” It’s a testament to the kind of relationship the two share, one rooted in mutual respect and shared goals.
The Future of the Number 24 Car
For Hendrick Motorsports, Byron’s success is a reflection of the team’s ability to adapt and evolve with the times. Team owner Rick Hendrick has observed Byron’s development firsthand, noting his perfectionist mindset and relentless drive to improve. Despite his recent victories, Byron is not resting on his laurels. Hendrick highlighted that Byron’s hunger for improvement sets him apart from other talented drivers, a characteristic that makes him a true champion in the making.
Byron’s approach to racing, marked by an intense focus on improving his weaknesses, particularly on short tracks, shows that he’s not just looking to win; he’s looking to be the best. Hendrick’s admiration for Byron’s work ethic is clear, and it’s that drive that has pushed both the driver and the team to new heights.
A New Era for the Number 24
With Jeff Gordon’s full endorsement and the support of Hendrick Motorsports, William Byron is now the face of the number 24 car, carrying forward a legacy that Gordon built over decades. The future of the number 24 car is in good hands, as Byron continues to make his mark on the sport. For NASCAR fans, the combination of Byron’s talent, Gordon’s mentorship, and the backing of Hendrick Motorsports sets the stage for an exciting new chapter in the history of the sport.
As Byron continues to dominate on the track and chase further success, there’s no doubt that the number 24 car will remain a symbol of excellence in NASCAR, with a new generation of fans supporting its newest driver, William Byron. The legacy of Jeff Gordon is secure, and the future looks incredibly bright for both Byron and Hendrick Motorsports.
