William Byron Claims Another Thrilling Daytona 500 Victory Amid Rain Delays

After dodging multiple rain delays that compelled President Trump to leave the race prematurely, William Byron emerged victorious at the Daytona 500 for the second consecutive year. With a series of late-race crashes taking out many of his rivals, Byron steered his Hendrick Motorsports car to triumph under the Sunday night sky at Daytona International Speedway.

Starting in ninth place with one lap to go, Byron powered the No. 24 Chevrolet to victory, making him the first driver to secure back-to-back wins since Denny Hamlin’s successes in 2019-20.

The race climaxed with another collision on the final lap. NASCAR allowed the race to continue without a caution flag, paving the way for Byron’s celebrated burnout on the historic track.

The 27-year-old maintained his lead despite enduring two weather-related delays that extended over three and a half hours.

President Trump attended a portion of the event, describing it as a unifying gathering that embodies a “spirit poised to propel America’s Golden Age.”

In a message released while en route to Daytona Beach, Florida, President Trump said the event inaugurates the NASCAR series by uniting diverse individuals through a shared zest for speed, adrenaline, and racing excitement.

“From the engines’ roar that fills the track to the rousing rendition of ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ that echoes through the stands, the Daytona 500 celebrates the speed, strength, and indomitable spirit that define America,” President Trump declared. “This spirit will drive America’s Golden Age, and if harnessed, the future is truly ours.”

In his inaugural address on January 20, the president proclaimed, “the golden age of America begins right now.”

He thrilled thousands of NASCAR fans with a dramatic Air Force One flyover before landing near the speedway. President Trump’s motorcade, including “The Beast,” took a lap around the racetrack upon arrival, and then led drivers on ceremonial pace laps before the race commenced.

“This is your favorite president. I’m an enormous fan, truly a big admirer of you,” he communicated to drivers via radio. “Your ability to race is astounding; stay safe. You’re talented individuals and exceptional Americans. Have a fantastic day, enjoy every moment, and we’ll meet again.”

Air Force One departed from Palm Beach International Airport shortly after noon, accompanied by guests such as his son Eric, grandson Luke, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum along with his wife Kathryn, as per the White House. Additional members of Congress journeyed with President Trump.

“The Great American Race” experienced delays yet again, marking the sixth time in 14 years—a troubling trend for NASCAR. With forecasts predicting heavy rain and winds reaching 40 mph in the afternoon, those involved braced for an extended day.

President Trump departed during what he referred to as “a minor rain delay” with hopes to “watch it at home.” By 5:25 p.m., after Trump returned to West Palm Beach, NASCAR directed the drivers back to their vehicles to attempt a race restart.

President Trump attended the race in 2020 during his reelection campaign, honored as the grand marshal of NASCAR’s flagship event and gave the command to start engines.

Last weekend, the Republican made history by being the first sitting president to attend the Super Bowl. President Trump is known for attending college football games, UFC matches, and has a passion for golf.

In 2020, when asked about his appreciation for NASCAR, President Trump told Fox News it was the drivers’ bravery and courage in quest of “pure American glory.”

He depicted the Daytona 500 as a “legendary showcase of roaring engines, high spirits, and the American prowess in skill, speed, and power admired for generations. Patriots fill the stands for the fast cars and top-tier motorsport. Yet NASCAR fans hold steadfast in the belief that no matter the race winner, God, family, and country remain paramount.”

At a 2018 White House event, President Trump celebrated NASCAR Cup Series champion Martin Truex Jr. and Furniture Row Racing.

As a former president and presidential hopeful, Trump attended the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway in the pivotal state of North Carolina last May.

One NASCAR driver accentuated the significance of having a president present during “one of our biggest days of the year.”

“His presence draws attention and offers a unique perspective on what we accomplish here,” remarked Chase Elliott.