Advancements in NASCAR technology have significantly transformed race preparation, with simulators becoming an important tool for drivers. While these high-quality simulators help drivers familiarize themselves with track conditions, 2023 Cup Series champion Ryan Blaney recently shared concerns about relying too heavily on them. Blaney shared his perspective on the Team Blaney Podcast, emphasizing that simulators are most effective for road course races rather than oval track events.
The Limitations of Simulators According to Blaney
Blaney explained that although simulators provide valuable practice, they cannot perfectly replicate real-life driving. He warned that depending too much on simulators might lead drivers to develop habits that do not translate well on actual tracks. He said,
“I think you can learn some bad habits if you’re fully trusting a sim. I mean, it’s just real life to sim work in anything. There’s always going to be a little bit of a disconnect, at least nowadays. Maybe 10 years from now, it’s going to be perfect.”
This acknowledgment shows Blaney’s realistic view of simulator technology and its current limitations.
Blaney’s Practical Approach to Simulator Training
Understanding simulators as a visual aid rather than a full replacement for real driving, Blaney uses them mainly to get familiar with specific track features, such as bumps and braking zones on road courses. However, he has experienced technical glitches that disrupt the simulator’s accuracy. He added,
“It doesn’t happen very often, but yeah, I use a lot for gear reference. Brake points I feel like get to be fairly similar.”
With nearly a decade of experience using simulators, Blaney acknowledges their improvements but remains cautious about overreliance.
Balancing Data Analysis and Simulator Time
Blaney spends many hours on the Ford Performance simulator before road course races, especially when on-track practice time is limited. Despite this, he prefers analyzing race data to preparing in the sim when possible. He described his preparation style in a past interview, saying,
“Everyone’s a little different. Some guys do SIM, others watch races, and look at data from last year. I’m more kind of a data guy than a SIM guy. But everyone’s a little different.”
This balanced approach allows him to adapt his training to suit his preferences and needs.
Impact of Simulator Use on Blaney’s Performance
Blaney’s methods are proving effective as he secured a playoff spot this season by winning at Nashville Superspeedway. His cautious use of the simulator, combined with data analysis and experience, makes him a strong contender for the championship.
As simulator technology continues to evolve, drivers like Blaney demonstrate the importance of blending virtual practice with real-world data to optimize performance without falling into detrimental training habits.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Has Ryan Blaney ever won Talladega?
A. At the Charlotte Roval, Blaney finished in eighth place, which allowed him to move on to the Round of 12.
He then won the fall race at Talladega, barely edging out Ryan Newman by 0.007 seconds in a close finish.
This victory helped Blaney advance to the Round of 8, even though he had an early slip onto pit road.
Q. Has Ryan Blaney won at Talladega?
A. Blaney clinched the Talladega fall race by beating Ryan Newman in a very close finish of 0.007 seconds. This victory allowed him to move into the Round of 8, even after an early spin onto pit road.