Connecticut native Ryan Preece secured a dramatic win at the Cleetus McFarland New England 900 on July 18, racing under the Friday night lights at Stafford Speedway. This Ryan Preece Stafford Speedway win marked a significant moment as he triumphed in front of family, friends, and local fans who have witnessed his rise from short track racing to a full-time competitor in NASCAR’s Cup Series.
The race featured a unique lineup of Crown Victorias piloted by a mix of YouTubers, NASCAR personalities, and veterans, culminating in a fierce duel between Preece and 19-time Cup Series winner Greg Biffle. The half-mile oval track saw multiple lead changes, but it was these two Roush drivers who battled for supremacy in the final laps, captivating the crowd with high-speed maneuvers and strategic drafting.
Back-and-Forth Battle Defines the New England 900
Starting from 15th position, Preece methodically worked his way through the pack in his No. 60 BuildSubmarines.com car, reaching the lead by lap 17. The top spot exchanged hands multiple times during the event, with YouTube stars Brent PFI Speed, Brad DeBerti, and Derek Vice Grip Garage all briefly leading.
With just 14 laps remaining after a restart on lap 77, Greg Biffle took the lead by aggressively diving low into the corners, holding his ground as Preece closely followed in his draft. The tension reached its peak on the final lap, when Preece capitalized on a well-timed nitrous boost to execute a daring crossover pass in turns 3 and 4, leaving the crowd at Stafford Speedway erupting in excitement.
“It was all about having fun. At the end, we’d to do the old NASCAR – rubbing is racing and put on a show for everyone. To be able to race with these guys at my home track, a place that has made me who I am as a race car driver, is really special,” Preece said post-race (via Alt Driver).
A Victory with Deep Personal Meaning for Preece
This win meant more than just another trophy for Preece; it was a triumph for a hometown hero overcoming a celebrated NASCAR veteran. Winning on the track that helped shape his career amplified the emotional significance, as family and hometown supporters celebrated alongside him.
“To have my daughter here, my family, my in-laws, my dad, and everybody here. It’s my hometown crowd, so it’s awesome,” he added.
Just two days prior, Preece had competed in the Monaco Modified Tri-Track Series GAF Roofing Mod Masters race at Stafford Motor Speedway, where he battled for the lead but ultimately finished fourth, with Jake Johnson winning that event.
Preece Aims to Carry Momentum into Key Dover Cup Race
Following his memorable Stafford victory, Ryan Preece heads to Dover Motor Speedway for a critical NASCAR Cup Series event this Sunday. Unlike the modified Crown Victoria he drove at Stafford, Preece will pilot the No. 60 RFK Racing Ford at one of NASCAR’s most demanding venues, aiming to build on his recent consistent performances.
Preece’s form has been impressive in the Cup Series, with top-15 finishes in his last nine races, including five inside the top 10. This consistency has brought him within three points of the playoff cutoff, currently sitting 466 points in the standings and trailing Bubba Wallace by just a slim margin for the 16th playoff spot. A victory at Dover would secure Preece’s position in the postseason.
Dover, known as the “Monster Mile,” features a challenging concrete surface with steep banking and a narrow racing groove that tests driver skill and focus. Sunday’s 400-lap race will include stages ending on laps 125 and 250, leading to a demanding final run to the checkered flag.
This weekend, Preece’s car will sport a special paint scheme honoring six-time WNBA All-Star Alyssa “The Engine” Thomas, adding a unique touch to his bid for a breakthrough performance at Dover.
The raceway has historical significance for team owner Jack Roush, who has recorded nine Cup victories at Dover, making it his third most successful track. For Preece, a strong showing here could mark his first Cup Series victory and a crucial step toward securing a playoff berth.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Where is Ryan Preece going in 2025?
A. Ryan Preece will drive the No. 60 Ford Mustang for RFK Racing in the 2025 season. Before this, he raced the No. 41 car with Stewart-Haas Racing in 2024.
Q. Has Ryan Preece ever won a race?
A. Preece has taken part in several NASCAR Xfinity Series races with Joe Gibbs Racing, achieving two victories. He secured his first Truck Series win in 2021, which was also his debut race. Preece often competes in the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour and has claimed victory 25 times throughout his career.