NASCAR Celebrates Champions at Nashville Ceremony
The NASCAR Champion's Week culminated with the honoring of Ryan Blaney as the NASCAR Cup Series champion.
Ryan Blaney Claims NASCAR Cup Series Title
Ryan Blaney was celebrated as the NASCAR Cup Series champion at the Music City Center in Nashville. Blaney emerged victorious in the Championship 4 finale at Phoenix Raceway, edging out his competitors to clinch his first Cup championship. Although he finished second in the season finale, Blaney crossed the finish line ahead of Playoff drivers Kyle Larson and William Byron to secure the title. This marked the second consecutive Cup championship for team owner Roger Penske.
Blaney's Gratitude and Appreciation
Expressing his gratitude, Blaney acknowledged the honor of racing with the best in the world on a weekly basis. He thanked his father and uncle, both sprint car superstars, for inspiring his racing career. Blaney also expressed his immense respect for team owner Roger Penske, who had supported him for over 10 years. Blaney delivered Penske's first back-to-back Cup championships this season with Jonathan Hassler as his crew chief.
Other Honors and Awards
Chase Elliott secured the National Motorsports Press Association Most Popular Driver Award for the sixth consecutive year. Ty Gibbs was named Sunoco Rookie of the Year in NASCAR's top series after a successful debut season. In the Xfinity Series, Cole Custer clinched his first championship, while Ben Rhodes secured his second title in the Truck Series. Various other awards, including the Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award and Comcast Community Champion of the Year, were also presented.
