Dale Earnhardt Jr. Just Picked William Byron Over Kyle Larson — and the Mystery Reveal Is Ripping NASCAR Apart

In one of the most unexpected developments of the 2025 NASCAR season, Dale Earnhardt Jr., the beloved racing legend and media personality, has publicly endorsed William Byron over Kyle Larson. The announcement came during a widely viewed podcast episode where Earnhardt Jr. stated his belief that Byron is the most complete driver on the Hendrick Motorsports roster. The fallout was immediate. NASCAR fans are divided, analysts are debating strategy, and the very unity of Hendrick Motorsports seems to be under pressure.

It is rare that a single opinion — even from a legend — can ripple through an entire sport so dramatically. But in a season where every race feels like a showdown, this endorsement has done more than just turn heads. It may have torn NASCAR down the middle.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. Sees a Champion in William Byron

During his candid conversation on his podcast, Dale Earnhardt Jr. spoke passionately about William Byron’s growth, focus, and technical skill. He described Byron as a driver who has matured into a true championship contender, praising his calmness under pressure and ability to execute on strategy. For Earnhardt Jr., Byron represents a rare balance of raw talent and mental discipline.

What stood out most was Earnhardt Jr.’s comparison of Byron with Kyle Larson. While he praised Kyle Larson’s aggressiveness and ability to push the car beyond its limits, he subtly suggested that Larson’s racing style, though exciting, can sometimes lead to mistakes or missed opportunities in high-stakes situations.

It was a sharp moment of contrast between two talented drivers. And for Earnhardt Jr., the difference was enough to clearly take a side.

He did not intend to attack Larson personally. But when an icon like Earnhardt Jr. says one driver has what it takes to lead Hendrick into the next championship era, it is impossible not to read between the lines.

Hendrick Motorsports Caught in the Crossfire

Behind the scenes at Hendrick Motorsports, sources report a growing sense of discomfort. While team leadership has made no public comment, there are quiet indications that Kyle Larson’s team did not take the endorsement lightly. Some insiders suggest that Larson, known for his competitiveness and pride, was blindsided and is now more determined than ever to prove his doubters wrong.

Meanwhile, Byron’s camp has welcomed the comments as long-overdue recognition. They see Earnhardt Jr.’s praise as a reflection of the hard work Byron has put in, both on and off the track.

The issue, however, is larger than just two drivers. Hendrick Motorsports has long prided itself on internal balance and unity. Drivers often share data, collaborate on setup strategies, and work closely as a team. But when one driver is publicly elevated above another by a racing legend with deep Hendrick ties, maintaining that internal harmony becomes far more complicated.

There is now a very real risk that this once tightly knit team will become divided — not just among drivers, but also among fans, sponsors, and even engineers.

A Fanbase That Cannot Agree

It did not take long for fans to choose sides. Almost instantly, social media platforms were flooded with hashtags like #TeamByron and #BackLarson. Longtime followers of Kyle Larson came out in force, defending his record, his personality, and his undeniable talent. They argue that Larson is the reason Hendrick Motorsports has seen such success in recent years and that any dismissal of his value is an insult to one of the best drivers of his generation.

On the other side are William Byron supporters, who have watched him grow into a calculated, consistent driver capable of executing perfect races under pressure. They point to Byron’s increasing number of top-five finishes and his steady climb in the points standings as proof that he is not just a future star — he is a present force.

For neutral fans, the drama has made the season even more compelling. Every race now feels like a new chapter in an unfolding saga. Every overtake between Byron and Larson carries extra weight. And every comment from Earnhardt Jr. is dissected for hidden meaning.

Championship Implications: Byron vs. Larson Heats Up

This internal debate at Hendrick Motorsports could not come at a more critical time. With the NASCAR Playoffs on the horizon, both William Byron and Kyle Larson are still in strong contention. Each driver has shown flashes of brilliance this season, and both have the equipment and skill needed to win it all.

But championships are not won in silence. They are shaped by strategy, confidence, and momentum. And Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s comments have introduced a new variable to the equation.

If Byron embraces the role of the chosen contender and channels the momentum, he could very well rise to the top. But if Larson responds with a statement drive and proves that he thrives under pressure, he may remind the world why he was once considered unstoppable.

There is also a broader question of how Hendrick will handle two strong contenders who are now increasingly being pitted against each other. Will team orders become more complicated? Will data sharing slow down? Will the garage turn from collaboration to quiet rivalry?

Conclusion: Has Earnhardt Jr. Sparked NASCAR’s Newest Rivalry?

The truth is simple but profound. Dale Earnhardt Jr. just picked William Byron over Kyle Larson, and that choice has stirred emotions that will not go away anytime soon. What may have started as an honest opinion has grown into a defining storyline of the 2025 NASCAR season.

The stakes are enormous. Not just for Byron or Larson. Not just for Hendrick Motorsports. But for the very spirit of NASCAR — a sport built on rivalries, loyalty, and the relentless pursuit of victory.

In choosing his favorite, Earnhardt Jr. has reignited the tradition of high-profile rivalries that once defined the golden age of NASCAR. And while he likely did not intend to divide the fan fanbase or challenge team unity, he has succeeded in giving the sport something it thrives on — passion, controversy, and competition.

Whether this becomes the fuel that drives both drivers to greatness or the spark that causes internal collapse will depend on what happens next. But one thing is for sure.

NASCAR will never look at the Byron versus Larson debate the same way again.

Would you like a follow-up article analyzing race-by-race performance comparisons between Byron and Larson leading up to the playoffs?