Ryan Blaney, with over a decade in NASCAR‘s Cup Series, has earned 15 race victories, including the significant achievement of the 2023 championship. His success accelerated after joining Team Penske in 2018, where he has secured 14 of those wins. Blaney’s overarching ambition is to build a NASCAR legacy comparable to the sport’s iconic figures Jeff Gordon and Tony Stewart, who served as his inspirations.
Reflections on the Current Generation of NASCAR Drivers
Before the Round of 16 cutoff race at Bristol, Blaney was questioned about whether he and his contemporaries now form the core of today’s NASCAR. He responded by reflecting on the succession of driver groups, noting how earlier generations like Jeff Gordon and Tony Stewart shaped the sport alongside peers such as Matt Kenseth. He continued by describing the next waves that followed, including drivers like Brad Keselowski, Kyle Busch, and Joey Logano, and then his own cohort along with Chase Elliott, Bubba Wallace, Kyle Larson, William Byron, and Christopher Bell. Blaney observed how distinct groups seem to rise and transition over time within NASCAR’s competitive landscape.
Blaney’s Desire to Inspire Future Racers
Blaney expressed hope that, a decade from now, if he remains active in racing, fans and future drivers will regard him with the same admiration he has felt for Gordon and Stewart:
“You never know. Hopefully, 10 years down the road, if I’m still around, you’ve got somebody who feels that way about me like I felt about Jeff and Tony and that stuff. That’s the special part to me.”
—Ryan Blaney, NASCAR driver
He emphasized the importance of how drivers influence younger generations—not only through their on-track performance but also by the way they conduct themselves off the track. Blaney aims to become a larger-than-life figure for upcoming drivers, mirroring the inspiration he drew from past legends.
Respect for Past Legends and Embracing the Sport’s Cycle
Blaney acknowledged how much he looked up to Gordon and Stewart, recalling the awe he felt standing on the driver introduction stage alongside them. He even joked about how his arrival might have made these veterans feel older, adding that he anticipates similar feelings when he reaches 40. To him, this ongoing cycle of rising stars succeeding established champions is an essential and endearing element of NASCAR’s appeal.
A Focus on Racing Over Legacy Recognition
Despite his aspirations, Blaney stated that his primary concern is racing itself rather than chasing Hall of Fame honors. He adopted a measured mindset toward future accolades, saying, “If it happens, it happens.” He recognizes the long road ahead and intends to focus on each step without undue pressure. Ultimately, what drives him most is the hope to become a role model for forthcoming racers, continuing the tradition of influence that shaped his own career.
