NASCAR Cup Series driver Josh Berry displayed remarkable resilience during Sunday’s Mobil 1 301 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, overcoming early adversity to secure a strong runner-up finish. Despite a setback in the second stage, Berry’s performance kept him in contention until the final laps, showcasing his skill and determination at a critical point in the season.
Early Spin Creates Challenge for Berry at New Hampshire
Josh Berry, behind the wheel of the No. 21 Wood Brothers Ford, faced a major hurdle when he spun out after contact with Shane van Gisbergen early in Stage 2. This spin appeared to jeopardize his chances of finishing near the front, putting the talented driver far behind and forcing his team to work hard to regain competitiveness throughout the race.
The No. 21 spins!@joshberry goes for a ride after contact with the No. 88. pic.twitter.com/HmnPv1fUB9
Persistent Charge Puts Berry Just Behind Ryan Blaney
Despite the early trouble, Berry and the Wood Brothers team fought back consistently during the race, steadily clawing their way back into the mix. As the race neared its conclusion, Berry was in contention for the lead, racing closely with 2023 Cup Series champion Ryan Blaney. The decisive moment came with 39 laps remaining when Blaney, benefiting from fresher tires, overtook Berry and held the top spot despite Berry’s aggressive efforts to retake it.
In the closing laps, Berry’s car became too loose, limiting his ability to mount a final challenge, but his second-place finish marked a significant turnaround for a team that had struggled earlier in the playoffs and was eliminated after the Round of 16.
We spoke too soon! @joshberry has closed the gap on the No. 12 and is there with 15 laps to go. pic.twitter.com/mQhykmEKUi
Berry Reflects on a Solid Performance and Looks Ahead to Kansas
Speaking to USA Network after the race, Berry praised Blaney’s speed and expressed satisfaction with his own car’s performance in the final stages.
“That was definitely an awesome day,”
Berry said.
“Hats off to Ryan at the end. I was a little worried when he got around me as quick as he did, but it kind of seemed like it leveled out and I was able to keep him honest at the end.”
Berry’s runner-up finish comes after his first career Cup Series win at Las Vegas Motor Speedway earlier this year in March. This result boosts Berry’s confidence and momentum as he prepares for the upcoming race at Kansas Speedway on September 28, where he’ll aim to secure his second victory of the 2025 season.
Originating from the region that also produced NASCAR Hall of Famer Mark Martin, Berry has steadily made a name for himself in the Cup Series. Samuel, a motorsports journalist who has been covering NASCAR since early 2024, provided detailed analysis of Berry’s performance and progress throughout the season.
The No. 21 spins!@joshberry goes for a ride after contact with the No. 88. pic.twitter.com/HmnPv1fUB9
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) September 21, 2025
We spoke too soon! @joshberry has closed the gap on the No. 12 and is there with 15 laps to go. pic.twitter.com/mQhykmEKUi
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) September 21, 2025
