NASCAR driver Ryan Blaney, competing in the 2025 season for Team Penske, has faced a mix of highs and lows, including one Cup Series win alongside several disappointing finishes. Following a frustrating DNF at Sonoma caused by a collision with RFK Racing’s Chris Buescher, Blaney turned to social media to address criticism from detractors, delivering a strong Ryan Blaney social media response that revealed his perspective on sportsmanship and anger management.
Frustration and Fallout from Sonoma Incident
During the recent Sonoma race, Blaney was forced to exit early after his car was involved in an on-track incident with Chris Buescher. This event left the No. 12 driver visibly upset, as he communicated his dissatisfaction over the team radio following the crash. The incident marked a difficult moment in what has been a turbulent season mixed with both a win and multiple setbacks.
In the aftermath, a fan on X (formerly Twitter) accused Blaney of being all talk with no follow-through, suggesting he avoids retaliating against competitors despite on-track frustrations. The comment questioned Blaney’s willingness to take action, an assertion that seemed to overlook the importance of controlling anger in professional racing.
Ryan Blaney’s Firm Reply to Critics on Social Media
Blaney responded directly to that criticism, clarifying how his upbringing influences his behavior on and off the track. He emphasized that he refrains from deliberately wrecking other drivers, recognizing that such actions would unfairly punish the hardworking garage crews who spend countless hours preparing the cars. He described his moments of anger as a way to release frustration rather than an indication of poor sportsmanship, and acknowledged that while he wishes people did not judge him for it, it is simply part of who he is.
“Maybe it’s because I was raised correctly and don’t wreck people and put the guys who work on this stuff for hours on end in a tough spot. Yes I get upset in the moment but it’s a way to vent and let things go. I do wish I wasn’t that way and people didn’t judge me for it but it’s who I am unfortunately.”
—Ryan Blaney, NASCAR driver
This response highlighted Blaney’s perspective on balancing competitive emotion with respect for fellow racers and their teams, reinforcing his image as a competitor who takes losses seriously but handles frustration within limits shaped by his values.
Blaney’s Passion Beyond Racing: A Hollywood Ambition
Outside of racing, Ryan Blaney is known for his enthusiasm for film and television. He has previously lent his voice to Disney Pixar’s “Cars 3” and appeared on Netflix’s NASCAR-themed sitcom “The Crew,” demonstrating his interest in entertainment beyond the track. However, Blaney recently revealed one standout dream: to feature in a “Star Wars” film.
The 31-year-old admitted he is a huge fan of the sci-fi franchise and expressed a strong desire to participate in whatever small role he could secure, even something as minor as dressing as a stormtrooper. Although the next “Star Wars” release is scheduled for May 2026, and production is already underway, Blaney’s aspiration remains a testament to his diverse passions.
“I’ve tried so hard to be…like, man, I want to be in one of those Star Wars movies so bad. Like, make me a stormtrooper, put a helmet [on me]…you don’t even have to see my face. Kill me. You can kill me. That’s fine.”
—Ryan Blaney, NASCAR driver, on SiriusXM
Blaney’s candidness about this goal highlights a lighter side of the driver, contrasting the intensity he sometimes brings to his on-track performance and social media exchanges.
Balancing Racing Pressure With Personal Passions
Ryan Blaney remains one of NASCAR’s more engaging personalities, known for showing raw emotion during races but distancing himself from conflict after the fact. His acknowledgment of frustration as an outlet rather than aggression underlines the psychological demands drivers face during challenging seasons. When not racing or responding to critics, Blaney prefers to relax by engaging with his love for movies and entertainment, offering fans a glimpse of his personality beyond the sport.
As the NASCAR season continues, Blaney’s approach to managing both his competitive drive and public image will likely remain under close observation, while his ambitions beyond racing hint at a multifaceted future ahead.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Has Ryan Blaney ever won Talladega?
A. At the Charlotte Roval race, Blaney came in eighth place, which helped him move forward to the Round of 12. He then secured a victory at the Talladega fall race, edging past Ryan Newman by just 0.007 seconds, despite a spin onto pit road earlier in the race. This win allowed Blaney to progress to the Round of 8.
Q. Has Ryan Blaney won at Talladega?
A. Blaney claimed victory in the Talladega fall race, narrowly beating Ryan Newman by just 0.007 seconds. Although he spun onto pit road early, he moved on to the Round of 8.
