Ryan Blaney Playoff Beard Saga: Before basking in the limelight of his maiden NASCAR championship celebration in Nashville, Ryan Blaney made a notable choice – he sheared off his playoff beard. The decision was likely wise for the newest Team Penske titleholder, who had sported a full beard, earning praise and jests alike. His colleague Josef Newgarden likened Blaney’s facial hair to that of an “1800s US president,” leaving everyone in wonderment.
Teammate Joey Logano admitted, “How Blaney gets away with that, I have no idea,” applauding his audacity. As much as the beard was a fun element for Blaney, it vanished before he stood at the Music City Center to receive his first Cup trophy. Yet, his ability to race through the final months of the season with the bushy look made him stand out in the world of Team Penske’s cleanly shaven faces and crisp attire.
But fittingly so, Blaneys distinctive style mirrored his achievements this year, contributing to two significant milestones in Roger Penskes storied career. His triumph at the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600, alongside Newgarden, etched new records for Team Penske drivers. Following Logano’s footsteps, Blaney secured the back-to-back NASCAR titles, a first for Penske in his illustrious career.
For Penske, the recent years have been a tapestry of triumphs, boasting 12 championships, 148 race wins, and 139 poles. A visual testament to his guiding principle: Effort Equals Results.
Reflecting on the monumental year, Blaney remarked, “To be a small part of all that success is great. We did two firsts for Roger this year, which was fantastic.” He added, “To bring that to him is definitely very special.”
Penske vividly recalls the meeting with Dave Blaney, a veteran NASCAR driver, who brought his young son in 2012, seeking a breakthrough with a renowned team.
We talked to this young guy, lots of passion, wanted to be a champion. We bought into that, said Penske. We saw that he knew how to be a winner. I think thats one of the first things we do, is figure out if you can be a winner. Then youve got to gel with a team.
Blaney reminisced about his tour of NASCAR giants in 2012, engaging with JR Motorsports and Joe Gibbs Racing. Already associated with Penske through Brad Keselowski, the team that year secured its inaugural Cup championship.
However they convinced them to give me a shot, its been pretty spectacular, Blaney said. And not only give me a shot, but stick with me 10 years, it just says a lot about Rogers character and his trust in people.
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Our Reader’s Queries
What is Ryan Blaney’s annual salary?
Ryan Blaney’s estimated annual salary is a whopping $2 million. In terms of career victories, as of 2023, he has secured an impressive 7 wins in the NASCAR Cup Series.
Has Ryan Blaney ever won a Nascar championship?
Ryan Michael Blaney is a skilled American stock car racing driver, who competes full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series. He drives the No. 12 Ford Mustang Dark Horse for Team Penske. In 2023, he was crowned the NASCAR Cup Series champion.
How many sisters does Ryan Blaney have?
Blaney, the skilled driver of Team Penske’s No. 12 Ford Mustang, credits not only his father but also his two sisters, Emma and Erin, for playing a crucial role in his NASCAR success. Their unwavering support has been instrumental in propelling his career forward.
Is Ryan Blaney married?
Exciting news for NASCAR fans as Ryan Blaney, the current Cup Series champion, recently proposed to his girlfriend of many years, Gianna Tulio. The 29-year-old driver took the plunge and asked for her hand in marriage last week. Congratulations to the happy couple on this new chapter in their lives!
