NASCAR Camping World Truck Series rookie points-leader William Byron has signed a multi-year driver agreement with Hendrick Motorsports, the team announced Thursday.

The 18-year-old Byron, who has won five races in Trucks this year driving for Kyle Busch Motorspors, will drive full time in the Xfinity Series beginning in 2017 for JR Motorsports, a Hendrick affiliate.

“William is a special person and a special talent,” said Rick Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports. “It’s been impressive to watch him come up through the ranks and have success at every level. What he’s already accomplished this season has been remarkable. On top of all his ability, he’s a terrific young man from a great family, and we think he has a very bright future with our organization.”

Byron won the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East championship in 2015. Through 13 races in 2016, he has Truck Series victories at Kansas, Texas, Iowa, Kentucky and Pocono.

“Even before I started racing, it was a dream of mine to drive for Hendrick Motorsports,” Byron said. “I have so much respect for the way Mr. Hendrick supports his people and encourages everyone to work together. This is the biggest announcement and biggest opportunity of my life, and I will do everything I can to make the most of it. I’m proud to be part of this team.”

Byron drove late models for JRM, which is owned by Hendrick driver Dale Earnhardt Jr., in 2014 and ’15.

“I owe so much to Dale Jr. and everyone at JRM for taking a chance on me in 2014,” Byron said. “Looking back, I know none of this would’ve happened without that opportunity. I was there during Chase Elliott’s [XFINITY Series] championship season and got to learn a lot. I know what they’re capable of, and I’m going to work really hard for them.”

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