Blaney Dominates in New Hampshire: Key Victory in NASCAR Playoffs

In a race where the Fords proved to be the fastest at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Ryan Blaney prevailed as the best in the opening of the second round of the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs. Blaney, driving his number 12 Mustang, led 116 laps, including the last 39, but had to defend against the attack of Josh Berry, who stalked him closely before going off a curve. Blaney secured the victory with a 0.937-second lead, adding his third win of the season and the sixteenth of his career.

That was probably the 20 most difficult laps I’ve driven.

Ryan Blaney

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.

Berry, with his number 21 Ford from Wood Brothers Racing, recovered from a spin and his elimination in the first round, demonstrating a great performance.

It was an incredible day.

Josh Berry

The Fords backed up their impressive qualifying performances on Saturday, with Joey Logano securing pole position. William Byron, was the highest-ranked Chevrolet driver, finishing in third place. Logano, who led the most laps (147) in his No. 22 Ford, finished fourth. Chase Elliott, after qualifying in 27th place, managed to finish in fifth place. Christopher Bell finished in sixth place, being the highest-ranked Toyota. Kyle Larson finished seventh, followed by Ross Chastain in ninth, demonstrating the competitiveness of the playoff drivers.

Tension between teammates

The race became tense for Joe Gibbs Racing on lap 110, when Denny Hamlin spun his teammate Ty Gibbs into the wall. Hamlin questioned Gibbs’ behavior, suggesting possible preferential treatment. Gibbs, who briefly returned to the track before retiring, finished in 34th place and avoided commenting on the incident.

It’s unfortunate, but I’m excited to race next week.

Ty Gibbs

Hamlin, after finishing in 12th place, spoke with Joe Gibbs and Chris Gabehart, JGR’s director of competition.

It’s very unfortunate that he went off track, and obviously the contact came from us.

Denny Hamlin

Joe Gibbs Racing, after dominating the first round, had an unexpected performance in the first stage at New Hampshire, where the team had won the last three races and six consecutive stages. The next race of the second round of the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs will be on Sunday at Kansas Speedway.