Penske’s Blaney Unstoppable at NH: Key Victory in NASCAR Playoffs

Ryan Blaney Conquers New Hampshire and Secures a Spot in the Next Round of Playoffs

In an exciting race where Fords dominated the New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Ryan Blaney prevailed, securing the victory in the first race of the second round of the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs. The 2003 Cup champion led 116 laps in his number 12 Mustang, including the final 39, but had to fend off the attack of Josh Berry, who finished in second place. Blaney secured the victory by 0.937 seconds, marking his third win of the season and the sixteenth of his career.

They were probably the 20 toughest 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 place in the third round of the playoffs.

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

It was an incredible day. Congratulations to Ryan at the end. All our cars were very strong, and Ryan did a great job there.

Josh Berry

Joey Logano, Blaney’s teammate, earned the pole position and led 147 laps, finishing in fourth place. William Byron, the highest-ranked Chevrolet driver, finished in third place. Chase Elliott achieved fifth place after qualifying in the 27th position. Christopher Bell, Toyota’s best driver, finished in sixth place. Kyle Larson and Ross Chastain also finished in the top ten.

Tension Between Teammates at Joe Gibbs Racing

The race had a tense moment for Joe Gibbs Racing when Denny Hamlin collided with his teammate Ty Gibbs on lap 110. Hamlin questioned Gibbs’ behavior on the radio, suggesting that he was receiving preferential treatment. Gibbs, after briefly returning to the track, was forced to abandon the race due to the damage sustained.

It’s a shame, but I’m excited to race next week and I’m looking forward to it.

Ty Gibbs

Hamlin, after finishing in 12th place, had a conversation with Joe Gibbs and Chris Gabehart. Joe Gibbs Racing, which had dominated the first round, struggled 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.