The Daytona 500 race is not just any usual sporting event. It’s the prestigious race that has often been labeled the Super Bowl of NASCAR. It’s true that the event has lucrative prize winnings. But more than that, the drivers themselves understand the value and recognition they receive after being crowned the Daytona 500 champion. Yeah, a champion, not just the winner. A title that forever sticks by them; putting them in an elite category.

For some, a Daytona 500 win may come naturally, while for others, getting it could be a long and grueling journey. Let’s take NASCAR’s winningest team, Hendrick Motorsports’ example. They had to wait for 10 long years to get their hands on the Harley J. Earl Trophy. And as someone who has won the race 3 times in the past for the same team, Jeff Gordon explained what is so special about the NASCAR official season opener.

Jeff Gordon tells the significance of a Daytona 500 win

The vice chairman at HMS, Jeff Gordon, has had his ups and downs at the historic NASCAR race. If we talk about the ‘ups’, he has lifted the coveted trophy three times. But at that time, he didn’t know it would be easier to win that title as a driver frequently compared to winning it as an owner. 2014 was their last win at the Daytona 500 with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and ever since then, despite all the championship wins and glory, the prestigious event was out of their clutches. Until now.

Speaking in a post-race press briefing, Gordon highlighted the significance of this particular racing event. He said, “Today it’s reminded me, it’s been what a decade since Hendrick Motorsports has won the Daytona 500, and through those years what we’ve gained the appreciation more so ever is how difficult this race is to win and all the different things that have to line up in order for you to win it.

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“To see these guys celebrate, that’s what it is about. So when you know these things and William [Byron] has been around the sport long enough to see it. You’re trying to make all the right moves, all the right decisions to put yourself in the position, the team as well and they did that. At the same time the end of these races the way that they unfold especially the speedway races and the way the draft works, you just put your foot on the floor and wait for the checkered flag.”

It‘s been a while since Gordon last won at Daytona International Speedway, but this win was very special to him and his team, even when compared to his personal achievements.

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A special win for HMS and Jeff Gordon

The #24 Chevy has seen many victory lanes when it was Gordon at the helm. Now, with the change in guard, William Byron is keeping that legacy alive and running. There has always been a message about team wins and not individual brilliance at Hendrick Motorsports, and so was the case after Monday’s win. Gordon even went on to explain his excitement and how this was a more significant win for the company and team as a whole.

“It’s certainly not the same as being in the driver’s seat but we’ve been able to celebrate big wins and championships together. I think our excitement and my excitement being on this side of it and seeing these folks how hard they work and seeing our people rally around. It makes you appreciate it so much more. I might not have been driving the car tonight but I felt like I made every lap with our guys. Especially with 24 and Williams in those closing laps.”

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The 40th anniversary has started off on a good note for HMS. Going forward, they will be looking to rake in more wins and even eye another championship win this season. Out of their 4 drivers, who do you think is the most ready to take the 2024 Cup title?