Ryan Blaney wins NHMS race after a string of challenging finishes at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway, securing his place in the next round of the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs on Sunday in Loudon. The victory, during the playoff opener before a sellout crowd, boosts Blaney’s momentum and strengthens Team Penske‘s push in the postseason.
Blaney’s Turnaround Performance at New Hampshire
Blaney has struggled on the one-mile oval in recent years, finishing outside the top fifteen in his three previous starts at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. Despite these difficulties, he entered the Mobil 1 301 determined to reverse his fortunes with a playoff advancement on the line. In a pivotal drive, Blaney led 116 of the 301 laps, including the critical final 39 circuits, capturing his first career Cup Series win at this venue.
This victory was particularly meaningful due to the live lobster trophy awaiting the winner—a tradition at NHMS that Blaney had long admired. He made it clear how much this moment meant to him, sharing,
Anytime you can win in the playoffs it’s just momentum. … When you win in the playoffs, it’s just that little bit extra.
– Ryan Blaney, Driver
The Significance of the Lobster Trophy
The unique lobster trophy held special importance for Blaney, who grew up watching Cup Series races and dreaming of this achievement. Describing his lifelong aspirations, Blaney remarked passionately,
I watched a lot of races here growing up, whether I was here or watching on TV,
– Ryan Blaney, Driver
He added,
It’s funny like tracks have certain trophies that catches your eye as a kid, and this is one of them. That’s something I’ve wanted to do since I was a kid. Sorry for swearing. The lobster is cool, man. It’s so cool.
– Ryan Blaney, Driver
Battle for the Checkered Flag
Josh Berry mounted a determined late-race push, remaining close behind Blaney after being overtaken for the lead on lap 263. Berry reflected on the intensity of the closing laps, stating,
It was definitely an awesome day,
and added,
Had a really good car. Hat’s off to Ryan at the end. All of our cars were really strong, and Ryan did a great job there. I was honestly surprised. I was a little worried when he got around me as quick as he did, but it seemed like it leveled out, and I was able to keep him honest at least at the end.
– Josh Berry, Driver
For Blaney, maintaining composure under pressure was crucial. He explained,
I knew he wasn’t going to lay over from me, but I didn’t think I was ever going to get the bumper. We raced just super clean. I would do the same if I was him, right? You go and try to win the race. That’s what this thing is all about. Luckily I hung on a little bit better than his. For a while, it was stressful and worn out, but overall what a cool weekend.
– Ryan Blaney, Driver
Other Key Performances
William Byron brought his car home in third place, while Joey Logano—Blaney’s Penske Racing teammate and Middletown native—secured fourth. Among notable local faces, Berlin‘s own Ryan Preece, a NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour champion, finished in fourteenth place, reflecting a strong showing from both prominent contenders and local drivers during the event.
Implications for the Playoff Picture
This marked the return of New Hampshire’s Cup Series event to the playoff structure for 2025, raising the stakes for all competitors. With his win at Loudon, Blaney advances automatically to the Round of 8, entering the next playoff phase with renewed confidence. The result delivers a statement for the defending 2023 Cup Series champion, his team, and a sellout crowd eager to see high-intensity competition at one of NASCAR’s historic tracks.
With the playoffs heating up, all eyes will be on Blaney, Berry, Byron, and the rest of the Cup Series field as they continue to vie for championship glory throughout the remaining playoff events across the series.
