BRISTOL, Tenn. – Not that long ago, William Byron was dressing up on Halloween and going trick-or-treating at Jimmie Johnson’s house in North Carolina.
On Thursday, they became teammates at Hendrick Motorsports.
The current NASCAR Camping World Truck Series points leader inked a deal Thursday with the Sprint Cup empire for a multi-year driver agreement beginning with the NASCAR XFINITY Series in 2017 driving for JR Motorsports.
Six-time Sprint Cup champion Jimmie Johnson said Friday morning at Bristol Motor Speedwaythat he was excited to have the Liberty University freshman on the team.
“Yeah, I’ve definitely been paying attention to him,” said Johnson. We live in the same neighborhood. And I can recall him Trick or Treating at my house in one of the rare opportunities we were home (laughter).
“I absolutely know who he is and have gotten to know him and have seen him around home. I think he’s an amazing talent with a great head on his shoulders and I’m very excited that he’s under the Hendrick umbrella now. Hopefully, we can take advantage of his youth and great talent and give him a great run. I’m excited that he’s on the team.”
Byron’s soon-to-be new boss, Sprint Cup Series owner Rick Hendrick is singing high praises of his latest protégé.
“William is a special person and a special talent,” said Hendrick said in a statement. “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.”
The 18-year-old phenom will chase his first NASCAR championship while taking classes during the fall semester at Liberty who also sponsors his No. 9 Toyota Tundra at Kyle Busch 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.”
Bryon graduated as an honor roll student from Charlotte County Day School this past May.
Follow Chris Knight on Twitter @Knighter01.
