Liberty University sponsoring Byron for 12 races

William Byron

Liberty University and 12-time NASCAR Cup Series champions Hendrick Motorsports have reached a two-year agreement that will make the world's largest Christian university a primary sponsor of the #24 Chevrolet Camaro driven by William Byron.

Byron, 19, will carry primary sponsorship from Liberty University in 12 Cup Series races in both 2018 and 2019. It was announced Aug. 9 that the Charlotte, North Carolina, native will move to NASCAR's premier level next season and compete for rookie of the year honors.

Hendrick Motorsports owner Rick Hendrick and four-time NASCAR champion Jeff Gordon appeared with Byron in front of more than 11,000 people today at the first Convocation of Liberty University's fall semester. Held at the Vines Center in Lynchburg, Virginia, the school's Convocation is the world's largest weekly gathering of Christian young people.

"Since we first met William, he has never ceased to amaze us with his skills on the racetrack, the strong Christian values he displays and his focus on academics," said Jerry Falwell, president of Liberty University. "We have watched him develop very quickly into a driver who can compete with the best in his sport. It's a privilege to begin our relationship with Hendrick Motorsports and to support William in his career, in his education and in life."

Liberty University began its support of Byron in 2014 when he drove late models for Hendrick Motorsports affiliate JR Motorsports and is now in its fourth season sponsoring the driver. Founded in 1971, it is the largest private, nonprofit university in the United States, the largest university in Virginia and the largest Christian university in the world. Byron is currently a sophomore working toward an undergraduate business communications degree through the school's online program.

"My experience with Liberty University has been awesome on so many levels," Byron said. "I'm lucky to have them support my driving career, but I've also lived on campus and seen first-hand how they lift up their students. I'm grateful for what they've done for me both professionally and academically, and it's very cool to have them take this next step and continue working with us on the No. 24 team."

In 2016, Byron turned in the most successful debut season in Camping World Truck Series history with a NASCAR national series rookie record seven victories. This year, he progressed into the NASCAR Xfinity Series, where he has already earned three wins — Iowa, Daytona and Indianapolis — and currently ranks second in the standings with JR Motorsports.

"Liberty is a new partner for us, and we see a tremendous opportunity to help promote their academic programs," said Hendrick, who is also chairman of Hendrick Automotive Group, the largest privately held car dealership group in the country. "On the retail side, we've worked with their automotive dealership management program, which is already one of the best in the country. I've visited campus and we've brought in their students for internships. It's very impressive to see the level of talent and integrity in these young people. William will continue to be a terrific representative for the school, and we look forward to building a great relationship."

Hendrick Motorsports signed Byron in August 2016. Next season, he will join drivers Chase Elliott, Jimmie Johnson and Alex Bowman as a member of the four-car NASCAR Cup Series operation. Hendrick Motorsports