The Hendrick Motorsports team swept up all three podium finishes in a historic victory at the Martinsville track. William Byron, Kyle Larson, and Chase Elliott crossed the finish line in a 1-2-3 spectacle. Their teammate ended up in 8th place, enrapturing the colossal Hendrick crowd who cheered for the drivers from the stands.

But one high-ranking employee of the team may not be so happy though. Rick Hendrick’s team is known for its meticulous work ethic, which is why gives it the extra sheen over other teams. And Kevin Harvick is certain one of them will raise her eyebrows even at this historic win.

Rick Hendrick’s better half may find fault in the Martinsville win

As the Hendrick team is celebrating its 40th anniversary, the 305-time Cup-winning team has gone through turbulent times over the years. And Rick Hendrick was accompanied by his wife, Linda, all throughout. To commemorate her tireless efforts, Linda Hendrick’s name was even displayed on the door of Kyle Larson’s No. 5 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.

Yet she might dissect the Martinsville race with a criticizing lens. Kevin Harvick brought up this topic recently on his podcast.

The Hendrick drivers delivered a stellar race despite the pressure to perform. Harvick said: “In those moments, the pressure’s on, and you’ve got all the cameras and people pointing at you as the cars to beat…That’s like racing for a championship right there, with 1500 of your employees there. Those are the moments you live for as a driver to be able to perform under those circumstances and get a W, not only a W, but a 1-2-3.”

Yet Rick Hendrick’s wife may not be satisfied, as Harvick pointed out, “The only person that’s gonna be mad is probably Linda. She’s gonna be mad because Alex Bowman finished 8th. She’s gonna be like, ‘Why didn’t we have 1-2-3-4?”

This no-nonsense attitude is what fuels Rick Hendrick and his team’s passion for winning. Harvick added, “I don’t think she’s really joking. Because the expectation from Hendrick Motorsports or Hendrick Automotive Group is to be the best. When you get in those private meetings with Rick, that’s what he talks about…’What do we need to do to win?’ And when we’re winning, ‘what do we need to do to win more?’”

Linda Hendrick’s dominant personality was recognized this year with a prestigious award.

HMS honor was extended to Madam Hendrick

Ever since Geoff Bodine restored faith in HMS by snagging a win in April 1984, Rick Hendrick’s team has bloomed a lot. And Linda Hendrick has watered its efforts with diligence. Hence, in recognition of her contribution, she received the 2023 Papa Joe Hendrick Award of Excellence. 

This award hails hard work and dedication to the company, and Mrs. Hendrick expressed humble words upon receiving it. “Looking out at this crowd, I never thought I’d be the one that deserves this. I have so much respect for each one of you. I value each one of you. I pray for each one of you and your families every single day.”

Evidently, a strong unity flows within the Hendrick Motorsports team that makes it a NASCAR powerhouse.

Read More: ‘That Car is Illegal’: HMS Legend Recalls Rick Hendrick’s Banished Brainchild ‘T-Rex’