Bubba Wallace and Ryan Blaney’s friendship spans nearly twenty years, rooted in their early days racing as children. Their long-standing bond gained attention recently when Wallace playfully mocked Blaney during the Iowa Corn 350 pre-race media activities, illustrating their ongoing camaraderie despite competing for rival NASCAR teams.
Before the Iowa Corn 350 at Iowa Speedway, Ryan Blaney, the No. 12 driver for Team Penske, took part in an unconventional on-the-run interview with NASCAR. While jogging across the track, Blaney answered questions about his life and racing journey, drawing appreciation from fans for the lively segment. However, Wallace, driving for 23XI Racing, responded humorously in the comments, questioning Blaney’s choice to arrive early for the event.
This lighthearted exchange was part of a broader narrative showcasing their friendship, which began when both were just nine years old. Starting their careers in bandolero racing, the two followed different paths as they matured. Wallace progressed through late-model racing and the ARCA Menards Series East, while Blaney remained involved in late-models before advancing in NASCAR’s national divisions.
Reflecting on their parallel careers, Blaney shared the unexpected nature of their achievements two decades later, strengthening their unique relationship.
“Then our paths crossed back again a little bit in K&N and then Trucks and all the way up to Cup. I don’t think either of us, when we were 9 or 10 years old, would ever think we’d be where we are 20 years later.” —Ryan Blaney, Team Penske driver
The Enduring Support Between Bubba Wallace and Ryan Blaney
Despite the fierce competition inherent in NASCAR, Bubba Wallace described the deep-rooted friendship and mutual support he shares with Blaney. Speaking in the lead-up to the Iowa Corn 350, Wallace pointed out that while many relationships in the sport fade, several drivers who started racing together as kids have maintained strong bonds over the years.
Wallace emphasized their close proximity and frequent interactions, reinforcing the idea that friendship in NASCAR goes beyond rivalry.
“Blaney and I, we live 10 minutes apart from each other. We see each other all the time. He’s there for me and I’m there for him, and through the good, through the bad, you always try to be like that shoulder to lean on. I truly appreciate him and what he’s been able to do for me in my career.” —Bubba Wallace, 23XI Racing driver
Wallace also humorously recalled their competitive beginnings, joking that he used to outperform Blaney during their early racing days. This playful competitiveness persists, with Wallace attributing his drive to the mindset of maintaining an edge over his longtime friend.
When asked about his past losses to Wallace during childhood races, Blaney dismissed the claims with a grin, suggesting that cheating was involved but also acknowledging Wallace’s talent on the track.
“Well, they were cheating. There was no secret. Go back and ask everybody. The Wallaces were cheaters in Bandoleros and everything.” —Ryan Blaney, Team Penske driver
“But yeah, hey, how do I follow that up? I will say he did kick my butt pretty bad. They were really good in like Bandos and Legend cars and they were always the car to beat, but I think they were cheating the whole years I was racing with him.” —Ryan Blaney, Team Penske driver
Current Standings and the Impact of Their Friendship
Ryan Blaney currently holds seventh place in the NASCAR Cup Series standings, coming off a fourth-place finish at Iowa Speedway with 665 stage points. Bubba Wallace trails closely in tenth position with 581 stage points, underscoring their consistent competitiveness in the sport.
Their enduring friendship serves as a compelling example of loyalty and respect within a fiercely competitive environment, revealing how personal connections can thrive amidst professional rivalry. As both continue their NASCAR careers with 23XI Racing and Team Penske respectively, their rapport offers a glimpse into the human side of racing, where competition and friendship intertwine.
