As the NASCAR community continues debating the number of road course races in the Cup Series, reigning champion Ryan Blaney has expressed support for maintaining six such events in the 2024 schedule. While veterans like Denny Hamlin and Brad Keselowski argue that six non-oval races are excessive, Blaney believes this number provides the right balance by adding fresh challenges throughout the season.
Ryan Blaney Supports Current Number of Road Course Events
Ryan Blaney, who has competed in nearly 40 road course races with one victory, voiced his opinion ahead of the Sonoma Raceway event that six road course races within the 36-race calendar is appropriate. He emphasized enjoying the diversity these tracks bring and remained open to a modest increase or decrease of one race without altering his stance.
We do six (races) now I think; that’s a fine number to me. Whether you go four or six or seven, I don’t really have a huge preference…I’m not the best at them but I enjoy the challenge of doing something different, whether it’s like a street course or here (Sonoma)… But if it goes down or up, it’s really not going to change the way I look at it.
—Ryan Blaney said via Frontstretch Plus on YouTube.
Blaney’s openness contrasts with the view held by some veteran drivers who have expressed that six road course races may be too many. However, he highlighted how the extra challenges of road courses add meaningful variety in the demanding NASCAR schedule.
Alex Bowman Weighs In on Road Course Race Count
Adding to the conversation, Alex Bowman of Hendrick Motorsports, regarded as one of the strongest road course competitors in the Chevrolet stable, echoed similar thoughts. He noted that fan preferences have shifted over the last decade, from wanting more road courses to now suggesting there might be too many.
Ten years ago, they wanted more road courses. Now, we have too many. So, I think five or six is probably a good number but there’s also people way smarter than me making that decision… Selfishly, we typically run pretty well at the road courses, so I like them.
—Alex Bowman said.
Bowman’s remarks reflect both a recognition of history and a personal preference tied to his success at road course events. His acknowledgment of those making scheduling decisions signals deference to NASCAR leadership while reinforcing that five or six road races strike a reasonable balance.
Ryan Blaney Highlights the Most Challenging Road Course
On a recent podcast after the Chicago race, Blaney elaborated on what makes particular road courses stand out as especially demanding. He identified the Chicago street circuit as the toughest one on the schedule, citing its rough roads and tight layout that continually test driver skill and endurance.
I enjoy it. I enjoy the challenge of it. I mean, it’s tough. I think, I think Chicago is the toughest road course we go to, just because, you know, it’s people always ask me, like, what’s challenging about I’m like, well, just, you know, the roads are rough.
—Ryan Blaney said.
Blaney described how the bumps, narrow turns, and high-pressure racing make Chicago a demanding venue for drivers. He emphasized that these characteristics contribute to both the entertainment value and the physical and mental rigor of competing on that track.
Everything’s super rough, trying to figure out the bumps, and it’s so narrow, like there’s nowhere to bail. Like, if you kind of get in the corner too hot, smoke it in there, and you get bouncing real hard on your blocks or something, or on the shock limiters. Like, there’s no gravel trap or grass to run off to… So, it’s, like, really mentally challenging for me.
—Ryan Blaney added.
Implications for NASCAR’s Future Road Course Events
Blaney’s insights arrive as NASCAR faces decisions regarding the future of the Chicago street race, with the current contract having expired following the recent event. His remarks underscore the importance of understanding the complexity and appeal of road course racing from a driver’s perspective.
The challenges presented by road courses offer valuable diversity within the Cup Series, potentially attracting fans who appreciate varied racing formats. Given the ongoing debate within the NASCAR community, balancing traditional oval events with road course races will continue to shape the sport’s competitive landscape.
As the sport evolves, developments around contract negotiations for venues like Chicago and Sonoma Raceway will be closely watched by drivers, teams, and fans alike, influencing how the road course element fits into future NASCAR seasons.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Has Ryan Blaney ever won Talladega?
A. At the Charlotte Roval race, Blaney secured an eighth-place finish, helping him move up to the Round of 12. In a thrilling end at Talladega, he won the fall race by a margin of 0.007 seconds against Ryan Newman. This victory allowed him to progress to the Round of 8, even though he had an early spin onto pit road during the race.
Q. Has Ryan Blaney won at Talladega?
A. Blaney clinched victory at the Talladega fall race with a razor-thin margin of 0.007 seconds over Ryan Newman. This win secured his spot in the Round of 8, even though he faced an early spin onto pit road.
