| Car Number | #12 |
| Team | Team Penske |
| Manufacturer | Ford |
| Nationality | American |
| Born | December 31, 1993 - Hartford, Ohio |
| Age | 32 |
2026 Season Stats
Career Stats
Biography
Ryan Blaney is a third-generation NASCAR driver who has elevated the family name to championship heights. The son of former Cup driver Dave Blaney and grandson of dirt racing legend Lou Blaney, Ryan grew up immersed in motorsports in Hartford, Ohio. His 2023 Cup championship validated years of consistent performance and established him as one of the premier talents of his generation. In 2026, he sits second in the standings with 271 points and a win at Phoenix, proving his title run was no fluke.
Blaney's journey to the Cup Series followed the traditional Penske development path. After impressive runs in the Truck and Xfinity Series, he was promoted to the Cup level with the Wood Brothers Racing No. 21 Ford in 2016 before moving to the flagship Team Penske No. 12 car in 2018. His first Cup win came at Pocono in 2017, but it was the 2023 championship that truly defined his career trajectory.
What makes Blaney special is his versatility. He is equally dangerous on short tracks, intermediate speedways, road courses, and superspeedways. His racecraft in traffic is exceptional - he knows when to be aggressive and when to play the long game, a trait that served him well during his championship run. His partnership with crew chief Jonathan Hassler has produced a consistency that keeps the No. 12 Ford in contention week after week.
Beyond his on-track abilities, Blaney is one of NASCAR's most popular personalities. His laid-back demeanor, love of dogs, and genuine interactions with fans have made him a fan favorite. He co-hosts the popular "Glass Case of Emotion" podcast and has brought a younger audience to the sport. With the championship experience behind him and the full support of Roger Penske's organization, Blaney is poised to compete for multiple titles in the coming years.
Interesting Facts
- Third-generation NASCAR driver - grandfather Lou and father Dave both competed professionally
- Won the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series championship with Team Penske
- Known for his love of dogs and frequently brings his golden retriever to the track
- Co-hosts the "Glass Case of Emotion" podcast with other NASCAR drivers
- Won the 2026 race at Phoenix, sitting second in the championship standings
- Started his Cup career driving the Wood Brothers Racing No. 21 Ford