Last week’s Nashville race winner, Team Penske’s Ryan Blaney was asked about the relief he felt finally earning that first trophy of the year – and guaranteed Playoff position – after being so close to wins multiple times this season. He insisted nothing would really “change” for his or his team’s approach going forward.
“It’s really nothing different,” the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series champion said. “We approach every week trying to win the race and no matter what spot you’re in, whether you’re not locked in on wins or you are. We did a great job last week of finally closing one out and you just try to do it again.
“A lot of people talk about that. Is there a mindset change when you win and you get locked in? I’ve never really believed that. I’ve always, to me at least and our group, it’s just we prepare every week like you’re trying to win the race, whether you’ve won one, zero or five it’s the same thing.”
There was a brief delay during Group B practice on Saturday as the track safety crew took extra care returning Blaney’s No. 12 Ford to the garage following a flat tire. The team avoided major damage, and Blaney is scheduled to start 13th in Sunday’s race.
