CONCORD, N.C. – It’s been more than three months since Hendrick Motorsports made history with its 10th DAYTONA 500 victory, but a special delivery Thursday ensured the moment won’t be forgotten anytime soon.
NASCAR chairman and CEO Jim France presented Rick Hendrick with a custom Rolex watch to commemorate the achievement, marking a first-of-its-kind gift for the only team owner in history to reach double-digit wins in the Great American Race.
The Feb. 18 triumph by William Byron broke a tie between Hendrick Motorsports and Petty Enterprises for the most DAYTONA 500 wins. It was the driver’s second consecutive victory in the crown jewel race, making him the youngest multi-time winner in the event’s history.
The back of the Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona watch is inscribed with the words, “First 10x DAYTONA 500 champion,” along with Hendrick’s name.
“This is such a meaningful gift, and I’m truly grateful to Jim, everyone at NASCAR, and the team at Daytona International Speedway,” Hendrick said. “The DAYTONA 500 has given us some incredible moments, and this watch will always remind me of the people who made them possible. It’s not just about the wins – it’s about the drivers, crew chiefs, team members, and their families who’ve put their heart into this organization. I’ll think of them every time I look at it.
“I never thought I would win one DAYTONA 500. I couldn’t have imagined 10 in my wildest dreams. It’s hard to believe.”
Also attending the presentation were track president Frank Kelleher and a group from Hendrick Motorsports including vice chairman Jeff Gordon, president and general manager Jeff Andrews, vice president of competition Chad Knaus, DAYTONA 500-winning crew chief Rudy Fugle, and No. 5 team crew chief Cliff Daniels.
Gordon wasn't left out of the gift giving. The three-time DAYTONA 500 champion was presented with a ring by Kelleher for the 2024 win as well.
Hendrick Motorsports now sits alone in terms of claiming the most wins across NASCAR's crown jewel events. The team has also compiled 12 victories in the Coca-Cola 600, 12 in the Southern 500 and 11 in the Brickyard 400, leading all three categories. Its 14 NASCAR Cup Series championships and 316 points-paying race wins are also the most all-time.