William Byron claimed his second straight Daytona 500 victory on Sunday night, becoming the first back-to-back winner since Denny Hamlin (2019-2020). The Hendrick Motorsports driver navigated multiple wrecks and over 3.5 hours of weather delays before crossing the finish line at Daytona International Speedway.
Byron, who was running ninth with one lap to go, took advantage of a final-lap crash to seize the lead. NASCAR allowed the race to continue without calling for a caution, letting the field race to the finish. The 27-year-old driver then celebrated with another burnout in victory lane—a now-familiar sight at Daytona.
Rain Delays and Late-Race Chaos Shake Up the Field
The Daytona 500, often referred to as “The Great American Race,” was delayed for the sixth time in the past 14 years due to rain and high winds reaching 40 mph.
- Two separate weather delays forced officials to halt the race, leaving drivers and fans waiting for hours.
- Wrecks in the closing laps eliminated multiple contenders, allowing Byron to take control.
- The race concluded late into the Sunday night under the lights at Daytona.
Trump Attends Daytona 500, Calls NASCAR a Symbol of American Spirit
President Donald Trump attended part of the race, describing it as a “unifying event” that represents the “speed, strength, and unyielding spirit that make America great.”
“From the roar of the engines to ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ soaring through the stands, the Daytona 500 is a tribute to America’s spirit. That spirit is what will fuel America’s Golden Age,” Trump said in a statement before the race.
Trump’s Presence at the Track
- Air Force One flyover: Thrilled fans as it passed over Daytona International Speedway before landing nearby.
- Motorcade lap: Trump, riding in “The Beast,” led drivers in ceremonial pace laps before the race.
- Radio message to drivers:”This is your favorite president. I’m a big fan of you people. Have fun and be safe!” Trump told drivers over the radio.
Trump had previously attended the 2020 Daytona 500, where he served as grand marshal and gave the “start your engines” command.
Trump Leaves Race Early Amid Rain Delays
After heavy rain forced a delay, Trump left Daytona before the race concluded, returning to West Palm Beach to watch the remainder of the event on television.
“A little rain delay, but we’ll go home and watch it, I guess,” Trump told reporters before departing.
By 5:25 p.m., shortly after Trump landed back in Florida, NASCAR restarted the race following an extended delay.
Trump’s History with NASCAR and Sporting Events
Trump has long expressed admiration for NASCAR, calling it a “legendary display of American skill, speed, and power.”
- First sitting president to attend the Super Bowl (2025).
- Attended college football games, UFC fights, and golf tournaments.
- Coca-Cola 600 guest (2024): Attended the NASCAR race in Charlotte, North Carolina, as a candidate.
- Hosted NASCAR Cup champion Martin Truex Jr. at the White House in 2018.
“No matter who wins, what matters most is God, family, and country,” Trump said about NASCAR fans in a past interview.
The 2025 Daytona 500 delivered intense action, late-race chaos, and a repeat winner in William Byron. Despite weather challenges and wrecks, Byron proved his skill once again at NASCAR’s biggest race.
Meanwhile, Trump’s attendance added a layer of political and cultural significance to the event, reinforcing his strong ties to NASCAR fans. As both sports and politics continue to intersect, Daytona once again proved to be a powerful symbol of American tradition.