Blaney Dominates at NH and Penske Shines in NASCAR Playoffs

In an emotion-filled race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Ryan Blaney, driving his Ford, took the victory in the first race of the second round of the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs. Blaney led 116 laps in his number 12 Mustang, including the last 39, and had to fend off the strong attack of Josh Berry, who finished in second place. Blaney secured the victory with a 0.937-second lead, achieving his third win of the season and the sixteenth of his career. That was probably the last 20 toughest laps I’ve driven. Blaney, who is seeking to reach the championship final for the third consecutive year, became the first driver to secure a spot in the third round of the playoffs.

Josh Berry, despite a spin on lap 82, managed to recover and finish in second place.

It was an incredible day.

Josh Berry

The Fords demonstrated their dominance from Saturday’s qualifying, where Joey Logano, Blaney’s teammate, took the pole position, completing a sweep of the top three positions with Blaney and Berry. William Byron was the highest-finishing Chevrolet driver, finishing in third place. Joey Logano, who led the most laps (147), finished in fourth place. Chase Elliott, after qualifying in 27th place, rallied to finish in fifth position. Christopher Bell, Toyota’s best driver, finished in sixth place. Kyle Larson and Ross Chastain finished in seventh and ninth place, respectively, showcasing the strong presence of playoff drivers in the top 10.

Tension between teammates

The race had a tense moment on lap 110 when Denny Hamlin collided with his teammate Ty Gibbs, sending him into the wall. Hamlin questioned the situation over the radio, insinuating possible preferential treatment for Gibbs. Gibbs, who had to retire from the race due to the damage suffered, declined to comment on the incident. Hamlin, after a conversation with Joe Gibbs, acknowledged that the contact was caused by his team. Joe Gibbs Racing, which had dominated the first round, had an unexpected performance in the first stage at New Hampshire. The next race of the second round of the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs will take place on Sunday at Kansas Speedway.