Ryan Blaney has emerged as a standout in NASCAR by mastering the challenges posed by the Next Gen car, especially when racing in heavy traffic. Unlike many drivers who struggle with grip and passing difficulties, Blaney has developed a “freer” car setup that allows him to excel where others falter, giving him a clear edge in the 2023 Cup Series.
Blaney described his approach during a SiriusXM NASCAR Radio interview, revealing an unconventional philosophy. When asked if other drivers were simply complaining because they couldn’t match his performance, he responded,
“I probably run my car freer than most… that gives me the ability to keep the front end a little more positive in traffic… fast cars and probably running a little bit freer helps when we need to come from the back,”
—Ryan Blaney, NASCAR driver
This method contradicts the common wisdom among Next Gen drivers, who tend to tighten their cars for better control. Instead, Blaney and his crew chief Jonathan Hassler intentionally loosen the balance of the car to encourage rotation on corner entry. Although this means managing tire wear more carefully when the car is in clear air, it offers significant advantages in crowded racing conditions.
In traffic, the freer setup reduces the need for aggressive steering inputs, preventing the front tires from sliding amid the disrupted airflow from other cars. Supported by Team Penske’s smooth-running engines, this setup enables Blaney to accelerate earlier when exiting corners, enhancing his ability to make passes and maintain speed in close quarters.
Blaney’s Martinsville Triumphs Highlight His Mastery in Traffic
Martinsville Speedway has become the stage where Blaney’s talent for navigating traffic shines brightest. His consecutive victories at this track highlighted how his setup and driving style translate into race-winning performances under pressure.
In October 2023, Blaney erased a three-second deficit over the last 42 laps, overtaking key competitors like Kyle Larson and Chase Elliott to secure his first Championship 4 spot. Notably, he led the final 22 laps while achieving a net gain of 11 positions within the top 10 during the race’s pivotal moments.
He repeated this impressive display a year later by climbing from tenth place at the start of the closing stage to challenge and surpass Elliott on lap 486, eventually winning by a margin of 2.593 seconds. These dominant runs underscored his ability to control traffic and seize opportunities that others often miss.
Blaney’s June 2025 victory at Nashville further validated his approach. Starting well behind in 15th, he steadily advanced through the field, leading 107 laps before taking the checkered flag 2.83 seconds ahead of Carson Hocevar. This consistency proves Blaney’s skills extend beyond a single track or event.
While many drivers continue to grapple with the constraints of the Next Gen car’s design, Blaney’s readiness to adopt a freer setup has transformed a common weakness into a pronounced strength. His fearless yet calculated style positions him as one of the most formidable competitors in high-pressure, traffic-heavy situations.
The Broader Impact of Blaney’s Driving Philosophy on NASCAR
Ryan Blaney’s innovative approach to the Next Gen car doesn’t just set him apart individually; it also challenges other drivers and teams to rethink their strategies. By demonstrating the benefits of a less conventional, freer setup, he pushes the boundaries of what is possible with the current generation of NASCAR vehicles. This could lead to broader shifts in car setups league-wide as competitors seek to adapt to Blaney’s style of dominance in traffic.
Going forward, Blaney’s success will likely inspire other drivers to experiment with looser cars, especially in races notorious for heavy pack racing. As the Next Gen car continues to evolve, Blaney’s philosophy may become a blueprint for mastering its complexities and achieving consistent, race-winning results.