After the Kyle Larson Gateway incident during the Enjoy Illinois 300, Ryan Blaney secured a fourth-place finish despite a pivotal on-track clash late in the race. The Team Penske driver said he would not hold a grudge against Larson, but made clear the moment will be remembered as both drivers pursue playoff goals.
Blaney’s Strong Recovery After On-Track Clash
Ryan Blaney managed to overcome a tough setback when he tangled with Kyle Larson’s No. 5 Chevrolet on lap 135. The collision occurred after a tense battle for fifth position, with both former champions exchanging moves over several laps. As Blaney finally took the spot, Larson surged from the bottom lane, but his car drifted upward in Turn 4 and made contact with the left rear of Blaney’s No. 12 Ford, spinning him out.
This contact sent Blaney back to 17th in Stage 2. Despite the setback, Blaney demonstrated resilience, executing sharp strategy and showcasing raw speed to claw his way back through the field. He ultimately finished fourth at the checkered flag, securing his 11th top-five finish of the season, which matched Larson’s own record for the year. That tally puts him just one top-five short of his career best.
Drivers Address the Gateway Dust-Up
In the aftermath, Blaney sought an explanation from Larson. He stated that while no malice was intended, he would be more cautious in future races alongside Larson, reflecting the intensity of competition among NASCAR’s top drivers.
“But yeah, just trying to get an understanding because from my seat, he came from all the way on the bottom of the racetrack, all the way up, and hit me in the left rear. So I just was trying to get a clearer understanding about that, and so yeah, move on.”
—Ryan Blaney, Driver
Larson admitted fault for the contact and offered an apology to his rival. Blaney explained that his post-race discussion with Larson was straightforward, further conceding that if he had not been able to rally to a strong finish, their conversation would have been noticeably different. Blaney emphasized he would not harbor resentment, but admitted the event would not easily fade from memory.
“It’s just those racing situations that you kind of think about next time you run with that person. You probably run them a little tighter, don’t give them as much space. There’s no ill will or anything. It’s just race people how I get raced.”
—Ryan Blaney, Driver
What’s Next for Playoff Hopefuls
Both Kyle Larson and Ryan Blaney remain in strong positions in the points standings as the season heads toward Bristol. Larson leads all drivers without a race win in the playoffs with a 60-point cushion, while Blaney sits safely in fifth place, holding a 42-point advantage over the elimination line. The Gateway confrontation highlights the fierce competition as drivers push to secure their standing before the postseason cutoff.
The incident between Blaney and Larson is a testament to the fine margins and escalating emotions that define NASCAR’s championship stretch. While no animosity lingers, both drivers are likely to remember this encounter as they continue to battle for a spot in the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs.
