Team Penske teammate cohesion is drawing attention in NASCAR, as the working relationship among drivers Ryan Blaney, Austin Cindric, and others sets them apart from recent tensions seen elsewhere in the sport. Amid rivalries and on-track incidents, Team Penske’s drivers have demonstrated a unified approach, gaining praise for their consistent teamwork and mutual support.
Comparing Team Relationships Across NASCAR
Rivalries between teammates are not new in NASCAR, as shown by the confrontation between Denny Hamlin and Ty Gibbs at New Hampshire, highlighting how competitive pressure can strain relationships. In contrast, Team Penske, featuring drivers like Ryan Blaney and Austin Cindric, is recognized for its smoother collaboration. Blaney recently referenced how easily he competes alongside his Penske teammates, suggesting their relationship is among the strongest in the garage and that no other group operates quite like them. Austin Cindric echoed this sentiment, reaffirming the team’s cohesive environment.
Penske and Wood Brothers: A Model of Cooperation
At Loudon, Blaney engaged in an intense but respectful on-track battle with Josh Berry, who races for Wood Brothers, a team closely allied with Penske through a technical partnership. The duel between Blaney and Berry was tough yet remained within the bounds of fair play, underscoring a deliberate commitment to clean racing. On The Dale Jr. Download, Blaney highlighted how the enduring collaboration between Penske and the Wood Brothers is unique in NASCAR, as both groups operate with a focus on collective success without resorting to internal competition that crosses the line.
Blaney reflected on last season’s title fight in Phoenix, where he and Joey Logano—both contending for championship honors for Penske—shared strategies and attended the same meetings. He pointed out that Roger Penske’s philosophy emphasizes finishing one-two above personal victories, with the ultimate goal being both cars at the front, regardless of who claims the individual win.
Cindric Describes Team-First Mentality Ahead of Kansas
During media sessions before the Kansas race, Austin Cindric detailed the Penske approach to supporting each other’s competitive needs.
“I think we’re all very conscious of each other’s scenarios. Obviously, Joey had a really good week, but he still needs points. Ryan won. I’ve got to have two really great weeks, and obviously, Josh is out of the playoffs,”
Cindric explained, per Speedway Digest. — Austin Cindric, Team Penske Driver
Cindric noted his familiarity with roles centered on assisting teammates, explaining that even small advantages, such as an extra five bonus points, can be vital for outcomes like Blaney advancing as a leader into the next playoff round. He emphasized that he would not deprive a teammate of those opportunities, recognizing the importance of the team’s overall objectives.
“I don’t think that’s fair, so I think we have to go out and do this the right way, but I think probably like no other team does, we have those conversations about what to do, what’s the right thing to do, how to take care of each other. Like I said, even Joey and I racing for the same real estate here, we still have to take care of each other, so I think that’s all very important.”
— Austin Cindric, Team Penske Driver
Unified Strategy Guides Penske Through High-Stakes Battles
The strength of Team Penske seems rooted in everyone sharing a clear direction and open communication within the team. Cindric highlighted how their preparation ensures drivers know exactly what is expected from one another in crucial moments, making races more predictable and reducing the chances of misunderstandings or conflict. He summarized the impact of this approach:
“are definitely on the same page,”
which brings clarity and smoother operations in high-pressure racing situations. — Austin Cindric, Team Penske Driver
As NASCAR continues to spotlight dramatic confrontations between other teams, Penske’s unified method under Roger Penske’s leadership is setting a noteworthy standard. The consistent collaboration shown by drivers like Ryan Blaney, Joey Logano, and Austin Cindric, supported by technical partners such as the Wood Brothers, indicates that balancing competitive ambition with teamwork may give Team Penske an edge in upcoming playoff battles and championship races.
