Ryan Blaney, the No. 12 Team Penske driver, has revealed his stance on future television appearances, stating his intentions about his role in broadcasting after his racing days end. While many fans have speculated about Ryan Blaney future broadcast plans, the NASCAR star has clarified he does not plan to pursue the booth as a long-term career, despite the path taken by fellow racers like Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Kevin Harvick.
Blaney Sets His Own Course for Post-Racing Involvement
Unlike veteran drivers such as Jeff Burton and others who have seamlessly shifted from racing to breaking down NASCAR action as analysts, Blaney prefers to limit his broadcast contributions. Over the past few years, he has occasionally provided commentary for Xfinity Series and Truck Series events, but insists that a handful each season is enough for his taste. Blaney’s decision to keep things limited is not new; three years ago, he made it clear that he appreciated the opportunity to join the booth but did not wish to make it a regular commitment.
Reiterating his perspective in a recent interview on the Team Blaney podcast, he said he enjoys his time in the booth, especially when working with other personalities such as Michael and Jamie, alongside Adam Alexander. Blaney believes his driver’s perspective offers something unique to fans, delivering insights into the strategies and mentalities found on the track.
“I enjoy doing them. I enjoy the people in the booth, whether it’s, Michael and Jamie, working with Adam Alexander, every now and then… And it’s a cool perspective.”
—Ryan Blaney, NASCAR Driver
“And it’s neat that I can give my little piece of driver perspective every now and then for those races.”
—Ryan Blaney, NASCAR Driver
Why Blaney Prefers a Different Path After Retirement
Although Blaney praises the on-air work of other notable names like Kevin Harvick, Clint Bowyer, Dale Earnhardt Jr., and Steve Letarte—recognizing their ability to provide quality analysis—he does not see himself following the same route. He strongly emphasizes that broadcast work is enjoyable as a side activity but not something he intends to make his focus after stepping away from the driver’s seat.
During these discussions, Blaney has stressed that while participation in the booth brings enjoyment and adds value to his experiences during the racing season, he does not view the role as a long-term pursuit after retiring from active competition. Instead, Blaney is interested in exploring completely different opportunities, distinct from the racing and broadcasting worlds.
“And when I’m done, I’m going to go find something completely different and off the reservation to do. But I have fun doing it while I can.”
—Ryan Blaney, NASCAR Driver
Blaney Repeats Reluctance Toward a Broadcasting Career
In a subsequent appearance on 102.5 The Game, Blaney reiterated his position. He firmly distinguished himself from competitors who have made post-racing careers out of providing broadcast analysis, again stressing that guest commentary during a few select events is his preference and not a future job path.
“I definitely don’t want to make a career out of it. Like, even after I’m done racing, I don’t really see myself doing that stuff.”
—Ryan Blaney, NASCAR Driver
Blaney’s approach provides fans a periodic glimpse into drivers’ insights, helping audiences understand a competitor’s strategy or how a track might challenge a racer. However, for Blaney, this engagement is meant to remain fresh and special, not a primary focus after his race days conclude.
What’s Next for Blaney Beyond the Booth?
With his clear stance on not following veterans like Dale Earnhardt Jr., Clint Bowyer, and Jeff Burton into a full-time broadcast career, Ryan Blaney is signaling his interest in forging a distinct path outside the motorsports media landscape. His short, impactful appearances behind the microphone offer fans a rare driver’s view, but once his racing career ends, Blaney will seek new opportunities unrelated to the racing industry or its coverage.
As Blaney continues his driving career with Team Penske, NASCAR fans can expect him to occasionally offer insights on Xfinity and Truck events, but his broadcasting will remain an occasional passion. Looking ahead, his unique commitment to authenticity both on and off the track keeps fans guessing about where his future pursuits might lead once he steps away from competition for good.
