William Byron delivered a commanding performance in the 2025 Coca-Cola 600, leading 283 of the 400 laps and sweeping the first three stages. However, a late-race surge by Ross Chastain denied Byron the victory in NASCAR’s longest race.
How the Race Unfolded
Byron, driving the No. 24 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet, appeared poised to secure his second crown jewel win of the season, having previously won the Daytona 500. He dominated the early and middle portions of the race, leading 283 laps—the most in the event since Kyle Larson’s 327 laps led in 2021.
Denny Hamlin emerged as Byron’s primary challenger during the race, leading 53 laps. However, Hamlin’s hopes were dashed due to a fueling issue during the final pit stop, forcing him to pit again with 12 laps remaining and relegating him to a 16th-place finish.
Ross Chastain, who started last in a backup car after a crash in practice, methodically worked his way through the field. His team at Trackhouse Racing put in a herculean effort, working until 2:30 a.m. and returning at 5:30 a.m. to prepare the backup car for the race. With fresher tires from a later pit stop, Chastain caught Byron in the closing laps. Byron struggled with a loose car through Turns 3 and 4, allowing Chastain to make the decisive pass with six laps to go.
Byron’s Reaction
After the race, a dejected Byron expressed his frustration: “It’s just frustrating. Don’t really have the words for it.” Despite the disappointing finish, Byron’s performance earned him valuable playoff points and propelled him to the top of the Cup Series standings.
Chastain’s Historic Win
Chastain’s victory was historic, marking the first time a driver won the Coca-Cola 600 after starting last. He led only eight laps, including the final six, to secure his first Cup Series victory since September of the previous year.