Darian Grubb to Serve as Byron’s Crew Chief in 2018

When rookie William Byron moves up to the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series next year, he’ll have a veteran with him to help call the shots.

Darian Grubb, who won the 2011 championship with Tony Stewart, will serve as Byron’s crew chief on the No. 24 Chevrolet next season.

Grubb rejoined Hendrick Motorsports in 2016 to serve as a vehicle director for the team after crew chiefing for various drivers at Joe Gibbs Racing since 2012. Grubb’s first three wins as a crew chief in the Cup Series came with Hendrick. He won his first race in style during the 2006 Daytona 500 when he filled in for Chad Knaus as crew chief. Grubb won once more with Johnson, then again in 2007 at the Coca-Cola 600 with Casey Mears.

“The opportunity to work with William and the No. 24 team is big,” said Grubb. “William is a phenomenal young driver and already a great communicator in the race car. I’m looking forward to building a strong relationship with him and working with Alan, Chad, Greg and all of our talented people. Everyone on the team will be committed to continuing the winning tradition of the No. 24.”

Byron, who has won three NASCAR XFINITY Series races this year as a rookie, is looking forward to having Grubb atop the pit box.

“I have so much respect for Darian and everything he’s accomplished in this sport,” Byron said. “There aren’t many people with a résumé like his, and I will definitely tap into that knowledge from day one. He knows how to win races and win championships. To have that kind of person leading the No. 24 team gives me a ton of confidence about what we can all do together.”