In NASCAR, relationships between teammates can often become strained, as demonstrated by the recent altercation between Denny Hamlin and Ty Gibbs at New Hampshire. However, Team Penske exemplifies a different approach where drivers like Austin Cindric and Ryan Blaney maintain a notably cooperative relationship, easing competition on the track and in the garage. This dynamic was recently emphasized in Cindric’s comments ahead of the Kansas race, highlighting why the Austin Cindric Team Penske connection stands out.
Ryan Blaney Praises Team Penske’s Unity Compared to Other Teams
Ryan Blaney recently praised his Team Penske teammates as among the easiest to race against, taking a subtle jab at other organizations like Joe Gibbs Racing. Even during intense wheel-to-wheel racing at Loudon, where Blaney competed against Josh Berry of the Wood Brothers—operating under a technical alliance with Penske—the two drivers kept their competition respectful and clean. On The Dale Jr. Download, Blaney credited Penske’s unique teamwork as the key factor behind their smooth collaboration on and off the track.
He referenced Phoenix in the previous season when he and teammate Joey Logano were rivals for the championship but still managed to share meetings and strategize together for a one-two finish. Blaney noted that Roger Penske prioritizes the team’s overall success, caring more about having his cars finish first and second rather than who individually takes the checkered flag.
Austin Cindric Highlights the Importance of Mutual Awareness Among Penske Drivers
Austin Cindric echoed these sentiments during a media session before the Kansas race, stressing how each driver is mindful of others’ playoff situations.
“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 said, according to Speedway Digest.
Cindric also reflected on his experience in navigating such situations, explaining that even minor advantages like five bonus points can impact playoff standings significantly, such as helping Blaney lead the Round of 8. He emphasized the importance of racing fairly and not jeopardizing teammates’ chances.
“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,”
Cindric explained.
Shared Goals Keep Penske Drivers Aligned Through Tight Competition
The 27-year-old driver concluded that the strong unity within Team Penske drivers comes from shared understanding and alignment during high-pressure moments. Knowing that they are “definitely on the same page” helps each driver approach close battles confidently, making difficult race scenarios clearer and easier to manage.
This collective approach allows Team Penske to maintain competitive strength in NASCAR while managing internal rivalries with respect and strategy, setting them apart in the field where tensions often flare among teammates.
