Ryan Blaney has shared a distinctive NASCAR victory lane tradition he maintains with fellow Cup Series drivers Chase Elliott and Bubba Wallace, revealing that whenever one of them wins, the others make a point of congratulating that driver in victory lane. This longstanding ritual highlights mutual respect and camaraderie among the trio within the fiercely competitive 2024 NASCAR Cup Series.
In a recent interview with the New York Times, Blaney, the 2023 Cup Series champion, discussed this unique practice after being asked which drivers outside of his Team Penske teammates he personally visits in victory lane following their wins. He noted how he always tries to be present to celebrate with Wallace or Elliott when they cross the finish line first, and they reciprocate this gesture for him as well.
A Rare Bond Built on Victory Lane Visits
Ryan Blaney emphasized the close connection this tradition fosters among the three drivers. Speaking about the arrangement, he said:
“I always go to victory lane if I’m still in the race for when Bubba (Wallace) or Chase (Elliott) wins. I always try to go there. And it’s vice versa for them, which is always neat. We’ve always just done that with each other.”
This mutual show of support stands out in a sport known for its intense rivalries, illustrating how respect and friendship can thrive alongside fierce competition. Beyond these three, Blaney often visits victory lane to congratulate first-time winners, marking special moments for fellow drivers on the circuit.
Celebrating Milestones Beyond Usual Rivalries
Blaney explained that congratulating drivers on their first Cup Series victories is another tradition he values. He recalled joining Daniel Suárez in victory lane to mark Suárez’s inaugural Cup race win at Sonoma and similarly acknowledging Ricky Stenhouse Jr.’s 2023 Daytona 500 triumph. Blaney said:
“But then if you go get your first Cup win, that’s kind of cool. I’ll go up there and congratulate you. Like when (Daniel) Suárez got his first one at Sonoma, I walked down there and congratulated him. And there’s been a few like Ricky (Stenhouse) when he won the (Daytona) 500, you go congratulate those guys,” Ryan Blaney said.
Such moments highlight the human side of racing, where drivers celebrate each other’s breakthroughs despite the high stakes and intense competition throughout the season.
Current Standings and Recent Performances
Through 17 starts this season, Ryan Blaney has amassed 503 points, placing him sixth in the NASCAR Cup Series standings. He trails Chase Elliott by 40 points but holds a 91-point advantage over Bubba Wallace. His consistent performances include seven top-five finishes and an average finish position of 16.5.
Last Sunday at Pocono Raceway, Blaney piloted his #12 Team Penske Ford to a strong third-place finish. Reflecting on the race via his social media platform, he praised his team’s resilience and determination during the event. Blaney wrote:
“Really proud of this 12-Team. We fought from the back through the field a couple of times, and never gave up. Was a good day.”
This recent effort followed a win at Nashville earlier in the month and contributes to Blaney’s steady climb in the standings as the season unfolds.
Blaney’s Career and Role Within Team Penske
Currently in his eighth full-time season with Team Penske, Ryan Blaney has established himself as a leading contender in NASCAR. Before joining Penske, he spent two seasons racing for Wood Brothers Racing, gaining experience and honing his skills. His rise culminated in capturing his first Cup Series championship in 2023, underscoring his status as one of the sport’s most determined and passionate drivers.
Blaney’s ongoing tradition with Elliott and Wallace, combined with his competitive performances, paints a picture of a driver deeply committed to both personal excellence and the broader NASCAR community. As the season continues, his interactions in victory lane and his performance on the track will remain intriguing storylines for fans and competitors alike.