NASCAR driver Ryan Blaney is gearing up to become a father for the first time, as he recently shared news of his wife Gianna Tulio’s pregnancy. The Team Penske star is eager to welcome his newborn, and he frequently turns to close friend and fellow driver Bubba Wallace for guidance on parenting.
Ryan Blaney Looks to Bubba Wallace for Support in Becoming a New Dad
Blaney, who is 31 years old, has expressed how much he relies on advice from Bubba Wallace, who became a father just last year. The two drivers maintain a strong friendship off the track, and Blaney often spends time with Wallace and his family. This firsthand exposure to fatherhood has allowed Blaney to observe the challenges and joys that come with caring for a newborn, making Wallace’s counsel invaluable during this exciting yet uncertain phase.
Blaney explained his frequent consultations with Wallace, describing how he watches Wallace’s son Becks Hayden grow and learning from those experiences.
“I ask him all the time, and I see it firsthand, being over at his place, and flying together, and stuff like that, and seeing Becks around, and watching Becks grow up, and stuff like that, it’s been kind of neat, so yeah, I ask him all the time advice, and what are some goods, and what are the struggles of a newborn, and things like that, so it’s been nice to have him right there, and kind of go through the same thing,”
Blaney told FOX’s Bob Pockrass.
Timing of Baby’s Arrival Aligns with NASCAR Offseason
The couple hopes their baby will arrive during NASCAR’s offseason, which would allow Blaney to focus fully on his family without missing any races. This timing comes as a relief, especially after seeing fellow driver Denny Hamlin miss the Mexico Cup Race due to the birth of his third child. Blaney emphasized that while the pregnancy was planned, the delivery date coinciding with the offseason was more a matter of luck than design.
“Good planning. I can’t say we necessarily drew it up that way, just kind of got fortunate on the timing of it, and yeah, so hopefully, fingers crossed, it all goes to plan, and we can be kind of settled into the off season by the time that the little one jumps back,”
Blaney said, acknowledging the fortunate scheduling.
Blaney’s Rising Success Parallel to Personal Milestones
This year has been significant for Blaney both professionally and personally. With his wife expecting their first child, Blaney has also secured his spot in the NASCAR playoffs after a recent victory in Nashville. The 31-year-old is now focused on finishing the season strong, so he can fully support his wife and prepare for the arrival of their newborn during the offseason.
Blaney’s ability to balance his racing career with impending fatherhood reflects his dedication on and off the track. His close relationship with Wallace has provided him with a support system that eases the transition into parenthood, fostering a sense of confidence and readiness.
The Value of Friendship and Shared Experiences in Parenthood
The bond between Blaney and Wallace highlights the importance of support networks, especially among drivers who face the unique challenges of balancing demanding careers with family life. As Wallace navigates fatherhood with his wife Amanda and their son Becks, Blaney draws strength and practical advice from watching this process unfold within his close circle.
Blaney’s openness about seeking parenting advice from Wallace and witnessing the growth of Becks demonstrates the benefits of mentorship and camaraderie off the track. This relationship not only helps Blaney prepare for his child’s arrival but also strengthens the community spirit within NASCAR.
As Blaney waits for the birth of his first child, his story will likely resonate with many expecting parents, emphasizing the power of friendship and shared guidance through life’s key moments. The offseason will provide him the opportunity to embrace fatherhood while gearing up for the next racing season with renewed focus and determination.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Has Ryan Blaney ever won Talladega?
A. At the Charlotte Roval race, Blaney came in eighth place, allowing him to move on to the Round of 12. He then won the fall race at Talladega, beating Ryan Newman by just 0.007 seconds in a very close finish. This victory helped Blaney advance to the Round of 8, even though he had an early spin onto pit road.
Q. Has Ryan Blaney won at Talladega?
A. Blaney secured victory in the Talladega fall race by 0.007 seconds over Ryan Newman. This win, despite an early spin onto pit lane, moved him into the Round of 8.
