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via Getty

via Getty

For William Byron, last weekend ended on a disappointing note as he failed to win the Cup Series championship. The Hendrick Motorsports man was one of the favorites to win the crown as he won more races than anyone in the season, with 6. However, the driver of the #24 was beaten to the line by Ryan Blaney. Shrugging off the disappointment, the 25-year-old is set to take part in another race for a prestigious title and this time, he will hope to win.

The trophy in question is the Florida Governor’s Cup which has a long and prestigious history behind it. The race for the cup was first held at the Golden Gate Speedway in Tampa, Florida, way back in 1965. Since 1988, its home has been the New Smyrna Speedway. Several racers have won the prestigious title and Byron will hope to add his name to the list.

William Byron eyes up 58-year-old motorsports crown

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The Hendrick Motorsports Cup Series driver will race in the #24 Anthony Campi Racing car. William Byron will be confident going into the race because the New Smyrna Speedway is a track where he has enjoyed success consistently. He has won his last four starts at the half-mile asphalt oval in the Super Late Model competition. These races were all held during the World Series of Asphalt Stock Car Racing, which is held every February.

However, things will not be easy for the 25-year-old. This year’s Florida Governor’s Cup field will include the likes of ARCA Menards Series champion and perhaps the next big thing in American Motorsports, Jesse Love. It will be the 18-year-old’s last race as a Toyota driver before making the switch to Richard Childress Racing’s Xfinity Series team.

Gio Ruggiero, the champion of the ASA Southern Super Series and ASA/CRA Super Series this year, will also be among the drivers trying to claim the prestigious Cup. The winner of the event will take home $15,000 and add a sought-after feather to their cap.

When it comes to star power, William Byron is arguably the most popular driver in the event. Given his form this season and his record at the New Smyrna Speedway, it wouldn’t be surprising if he takes the checkered flag this Sunday. It would be a much-needed confidence booster after a deflating result in Phoenix last weekend.

Despite coming up short in the Cup Series championship race, William Byron was one to congratulate Chevrolet for their efforts throughout the season. The Chevys indeed were rapid throughout the season and their efforts were rewarded by NASCAR.

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Hendrick Motorsports star acknowledges historic Chevrolet achievement

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Chevrolet was the victor in all three national series, Cup, Xfinity, and Truck, for the first time since 2012. It was a huge cause for celebration in what otherwise would have been a rather disappointing end to the season.

Taking to Instagram Stories, the 25-year-old HMS driver congratulated Chevrolet for their incredible achievement. “Congrats to Chevrolet for capturing all three NASCAR national touring series manufacturer championships in 2023! Thanks to the men and women across all of the teams that made this possible. Proud to be a part of the #TeamChevy family!”

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William Byron will be looking to go that one step further next year, but right now, his focus will be on the Florida Governor’s Cup. Will the 25-year-old be able to get redemption? 

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