Charlotte, NC – The NASCAR community is reeling after William Byron, 27, and girlfriend Erin Blaney, sister of driver Ryan Blaney, announced their shocking separation on May 3, 2025. The couple, a beloved fixture in the racing world, shared the devastating news via a joint statement on social media, sending fans into a frenzy of disbelief and sorrow.

Byron, the back-to-back Daytona 500 champion, and Blaney, a familiar face in the NASCAR paddock, cited personal reasons for their split after years of public support for each other. “With heavy hearts, we’ve decided to part ways,” the statement read. “We remain grateful for the love and memories we’ve shared.” The announcement, posted at 9:30 PM EDT, quickly sparked trending hashtags like #ByronBlaneyBreakup and #NASCARSadNews on X.

The couple’s romance, blending two prominent racing families, had captivated fans. Erin often cheered Byron’s victories, including his dominant 2025 Darlington run, while Byron supported her family’s racing legacy. Their breakup has left the NASCAR community grappling with the loss of a cherished love story, with fans flooding X with messages of support. “This hurts more than a race crash,” one fan posted.

Byron, currently leading the NASCAR Cup Series points, and the Blaney family have requested privacy as they navigate this difficult time. The news comes amidst a high-stakes season, adding emotional weight to Byron’s upcoming races. The NASCAR world, known for its tight-knit bonds, is rallying around both families, with drivers and teams offering words of encouragement.

As the story unfolds, fans are urged to share messages of love and strength for Byron and Blaney. Stay tuned for updates on this emotional chapter, and join the conversation below to honor a couple who brought joy to NASCAR’s heart.