Ryan Blaney, Team Penske’s seasoned NASCAR Cup driver, has made a bold case for Las Vegas Motor Speedway, arguing it’s one of the most underrated tracks in the series. As the NASCAR Cup Series enters the high-stakes Round of 8, with Las Vegas kicking off a trio of pivotal races alongside Martinsville and Homestead, Blaney arrived confident and ready to make his mark.
Blaney, still very much in the hunt for the championship, praised the 1.5-mile track, emphasizing its ability to produce thrilling races. He expressed how much he enjoys racing at the venue and noted that despite its consistently competitive nature, it often doesn’t get the recognition it deserves.
“I love going out to the track in Vegas. I enjoy that it has two dates on the schedule and enjoy that it’s in playoffs because it does put on a really good race,” Blaney said ahead of the race weekend. “I feel like that track is very underrated as far as race-ability and the type of shows that it puts on, but I think everyone loves that track.”
Blaney also reflected on his past performances at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, where his No. 12 Ford has shown strong pace. However, despite numerous solid runs, victory has eluded him at the Nevada track. Still, he remains optimistic, convinced that his day to conquer Vegas is coming.
“Vegas has always been a good track for us, not only as the 12 team but for Team Penske as well. It’s one of those tracks where I feel we always run really strong at, but I haven’t won there yet. I feel like we’re always there and in contention, and that’s what you have to do.”
Unfortunately, Blaney’s hopes for a smooth weekend were dashed when his car wrecked during practice, forcing him into a backup car. To make matters worse, he was disqualified from qualifying, meaning he will start Sunday’s race from dead last. The setback is significant as Blaney continues his bid to secure a spot in the Championship 4.
“It’s definitely a lot to overcome, for sure. Starting in the back and no laps with this backup car… I have confidence that hopefully we can make some hay tomorrow and do it early. Try to get up through there. So yeah, it sets us back a little bit, but this team — they thrive under that type of pressure. Happy to be with a group like that,” Blaney remarked, undeterred by the challenge ahead.
With his back against the wall, Blaney faces a critical race at Vegas. He’ll need to pull off a near-miraculous performance to salvage points and position himself well for the next stop at Martinsville. Can Blaney recreate his clutch form from 2023, or will the wreck at Vegas derail his championship hopes? The answer will unfold as the NASCAR Cup Series continues its dramatic run toward crowning a champion.
