Ryan Blaney claimed a hard-fought NASCAR win Sunday evening at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, fending off relentless pressure from Ford teammate Josh Berry during the final laps of the Cup Series race. This victory gives Blaney the distinction of being the first driver to clinch a spot in the Round of 8 as the playoff battles intensify.
Blaney’s NASCAR win served as a crucial response for Ford and Penske teams, following Joe Gibbs Racing and Toyota’s dominance in the opening Round of 12.
Intense Duel Between Blaney and Berry Highlights Playoff Drama
The race showcased contrasting playoff stories, with Blaney advancing confidently while Berry, recently eliminated from the playoffs at Bristol, delivered a surprising performance. Berry, driving for Wood Brothers Racing after finishing last in the previous three Round of 16 races, pushed hard and challenged Blaney to the very end.
That was good racing and clean racing,
Blaney told NASCAR on USA.
I appreciate Josh for not throwing me the bumper when he could’ve.
Ryan Blaney, NASCAR driver
Berry dominated the late part of the race before Blaney overtook him, initiating a tense duel in the closing laps. Though Berry did not win, he took pride in pressuring Blaney throughout the race’s final moments.
I was a little worried when he got around me so quick,
Berry said in a post-race interview.
But it leveled out, and I was able to keep him honest in the end.
Josh Berry, NASCAR driver
Stage Wins and Team Performances Shape the Race Outcome
Blaney also captured the opening stage of the race, while Berry inadvertently triggered an early Stage 2 caution with a spin. Penske drivers dominated throughout, including Joey Logano, the reigning champion and Blaney’s teammate, who took the Stage 2 victory. Overall, Penske’s strong performance reinforced their status as serious contenders in this playoff round.
William Byron secured third place, marking his first top-ten finish at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, despite Hendrick Motorsports experiencing challenges during the playoffs. Logano finished fourth, ahead of Chase Elliott and Christopher Bell, who won last week’s Bristol race.
Kyle Larson rounded out the Hendrick drivers’ strong showing with a seventh-place finish, completing a top-ten sweep alongside Michael McDowell in eighth. Ross Chastain and Chase Briscoe finished ninth and tenth respectively, further reflecting the competitive depth among the playoff field.
Implications for Playoff Contenders and What’s Ahead
Blaney’s victory not only secures his advance to the Round of 8 but also represents a critical momentum boost for Ford and Penske teams as the playoffs progress. Berry’s impressive challenge after being eliminated last week shows resilience that could impact future races. The intense battles at New Hampshire Motor Speedway hint at continued uncertainty and fierce competition as the series moves forward.
With the Round of 12 underway, drivers and teams are feeling the pressure to perform, knowing that every race could determine advancement or elimination in the fight for the championship.
