Ryan Blaney Chicago Street Course finish drew attention on Sunday as the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series champion overcame an early-race setback to secure a determined twelfth-place result. The nail-biting event unfolded at the Chicago Street Course, where Blaney’s persistence helped him gain valuable ground in the playoff hunt after encountering unexpected obstacles in the opening laps.
Blaney family stays close as racing drama unfolds
Off the track, Erin Blaney, sister to Ryan Blaney, shared glimpses of her life with NASCAR fans. Erin posted a denim-inspired selfie on Instagram, following up on fashion posts she often shares, and continues to grow her presence online. She not only works as a community development specialist for Make-A-Wish Central and Western North Carolina but is also a vital member of one of NASCAR’s recognized families. Erin is the daughter of former racer Dave Blaney and Lisa Blaney, and the sister of both Ryan and Emma, who is married to Cale Conley. Despite the diverse paths each family member takes, they remain tightly bonded by their support for one another at and away from the racetrack.
Early mayhem and a crucial decision shape Blaney’s race
As the race began in Chicago, Blaney started his No. 12 Ford Mustang from the seventeenth position, facing a challenging path ahead. The opening laps saw a multi-car crash at the front, and while Blaney’s car suffered slight damage, he managed to remain in contention. A red flag temporarily halted the competition, yet once the race restarted, Blaney’s focus and determination became evident. Jonathan Hassler, Blaney’s crew chief with Team Penske, made the strategic call to bring him in for a pit stop before the stage break. This move sacrificed some track position but promised potential rewards deeper into the event.
Stage win and recovery in the final segment
The critical point came in Stage 2, when Blaney opted to stay on the track while many others pitted. He maneuvered skillfully past competitors, breaking into the top five before taking the lead with just two laps remaining in the stage. This surge earned him his fourth stage win of the 2025 season, adding momentum as the race intensified.
“I thought overall it was a pretty decent day. It was nice to win that stage. I knew we were going to lose track position, but we were fine. We made up really good ground on the restart in the third stage and then I hit the inside wall in (Turn) 11 and popped the right-front tire. We had to work our way back from there, but, overall, it was a decent recovery,” Blaney said (via Team Penske)
Despite the celebration, Blaney encountered further adversity soon after. Following a four-tire stop, he was sent deep into the running order. On lap 52, contact with the wall in turn 11 punctured his right-front tire, demanding an unscheduled pit visit. Fortuitously, a timely caution flag granted him a chance to rejoin the leaders. Demonstrating perseverance, Blaney pushed forward in the closing stages, lifting himself to a respectable twelfth position at the checkered flag.
Eyes on Sonoma as playoff battle intensifies
As Ryan Blaney prepares for the next challenge at Sonoma Raceway, questions remain about his performance on road courses. However, his previous top-five at the California circuit and the momentum gained from his Chicago Street Course finish provide hope. With Team Penske and his family rallying behind him, Blaney’s resolve continues to make him a contender as the NASCAR season progresses.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Has Ryan Blaney ever won Talladega?
A. At the Charlotte Roval race, Blaney came in eighth place and moved forward to the Round of 12. Blaney then won the fall race at Talladega by barely 0.007 seconds against Ryan Newman. Despite an early spin near the pit area, this victory allowed him to progress to the Round of 8.
Q. Has Ryan Blaney won at Talladega?
A. Blaney clinched victory in the Talladega fall race by just 0.007 seconds ahead of Ryan Newman. This secured his spot in the Round of 8, even after an early spin onto pit road.
