In NASCAR, Ryan Blaney has discovered a way to thrive with the Next Gen car at a time when many drivers struggle to manage its quirks. His unique “freer” setup philosophy, developed with Team Penske, allows him to excel in traffic where others find it difficult to pass and maintain speed.
The 2023 Cup Series champion has turned this approach into a decisive edge, mastering the challenges that the Next Gen car presents in close racing scenarios.
Understanding Ryan Blaney’s Looser Car Setup Strategy
During a SiriusXM NASCAR Radio session, a caller suggested that other drivers might be
“just whining because they can’t do what you’re doing,”
prompting Blaney to explain his approach in detail.
I probably run my car freer than most… that gives me the ability to keep the front end a little more positive in traffic… fast cars and probably running a little bit freer helps when we need to come from the back,
—Ryan Blaney, NASCAR Driver
This method contrasts sharply with the usual Next Gen setup, as most competitors stiffen their cars to maintain control. Blaney and his crew chief Jonathan Hassler purposefully aim for a more relaxed balance that favors rotation entering corners. Even though this may require managing the right rear tire carefully on clear tracks, it delivers significant benefits in congested racing.
The freer configuration reduces the steering effort required, limiting front tire slip caused by disturbed air behind other cars. Coupled with Team Penske’s smooth engines, this setup enables Blaney to accelerate earlier out of turns, crucial for overtaking in dense traffic.
Proof of Dominance Through Martinsville Victories
Blaney’s mastery with his freer setup was on full display at Martinsville Speedway, where he achieved consecutive dramatic late-race surges to secure Championship 4 spots.
In October 2023, Blaney healed a three-second deficit during the final 42 laps, overtaking Kyle Larson and Chase Elliott to earn his first Championship 4 berth. During this rally, he recorded an impressive +11 net passes within the top 10, maintaining the lead for the closing 22 laps.
One year later, Blaney replicated this feat even more dominantly. From starting the final segment in 10th place, he charged through the field, passing Elliott on lap 486 and capturing the win by 2.593 seconds. These performances underline his exceptional skill navigating traffic under pressure.
Blaney reinforced his Next Gen advantage with a solid victory at Nashville in June 2025. Beginning in 15th position, he steadily advanced through the pack to lead 107 laps and won by 2.83 seconds over Carson Hocevar, showcasing his consistency and control.
While many drivers continue to battle with the limitations of the Next Gen car, Blaney’s “freer” setup has given him a strategic edge that few rivals can match in traffic.
This distinctive philosophy has established him as one of the most formidable competitors when races reach their most intense moments.
