Photo Credit: Jonathan Ferrey/Getty Images North America
Current NASCAR Camping World Truck Series points leader will take the next step up the ladder on the road to the Sprint Cup Series next season.
However it won’t be with Joe Gibbs Racing as expected as the 18 year – old phenom realized a dream on Thursday when he signed a multi year deal with Hendrick Motorsports.
“Even before I started racing, it was a dream of mine to drive for Hendrick Motorsports,” Byron said. “I have so much respect for the way Mr. Hendrick supports his people and encourages everyone to work together. This is the biggest announcement and biggest opportunity of my life, and I will do everything I can to make the most of it. I’m proud to be part of this team.”
“William is a special person and a special talent,” said Rick Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports. “It’s been impressive to watch him come up through the ranks and have success at every level. What he’s already accomplished this season has been remarkable. On top of all his ability, he’s a terrific young man from a great family, and we think he has a very bright future with our organization.”
Byron, who has five wins in just 13 starts this season in the NCWTS, put himself on the map last year winning the K&N Pro Series East championship, posting four wins, three pole positions, five top-five finishes and 11 top-10’s.
Byron will drive full-time in the XFINITY Series for JR Motorsports in 2017 and he already has familiarity with the organization owned by Dale Earnhardt Jr., Kelley Earnhardt Miller and Hendrick as he won two late model races in 2014 and 2015 with the team.
“I owe so much to Dale Jr. and everyone at JRM for taking a chance on me in 2014,” Byron said. “Looking back, I know none of this would’ve happened without that opportunity. I was there during Chase Elliott’s championship season and got to learn a lot. I know what they’re capable of, and I’m going to work really hard for them.”
