Ryan Blaney Becomes First NASCAR Champion to Sport a Beard

• Ryan Blaney, foreground, celebrates after winning the NASCAR Cup Series Championship Cup at Phoenix Raceway, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, in Avondale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Darryl Webb)

• His unique facial hair added character to the Penske Perfect image.

• Blaney contributed to two firsts for Roger Penske: winning the Indy 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 in the same day.

Ryan Blaney, foreground, celebrates after winning the NASCAR Cup Series Championship Cup at Phoenix Raceway, Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, in Avondale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Darryl Webb)

AP

In the glamorous world of NASCAR, where speed and precision rule the track, there emerged a champion who defied the norms. His name is Ryan Blaney, the newest Team Penske champion, and he made history in more ways than one. Not only did he capture his first NASCAR Cup trophy, but he did so with a beard that would make even the most distinguished 1800s US president proud.

Blaney's decision to sport a full beard during the playoff season raised eyebrows and earned him admiration from his teammates and fans. His fellow Team Penske driver, Josef Newgarden, couldn't help but compare him to a historic figure from yesteryears. 'An 1800s US president,' he marveled. And his teammate Joey Logano was equally impressed, acknowledging the audacity it took to grow such a distinguished facial accessory. 'The guts he's got to even try—I don't think anyone in our company has even tried to do that. So more kudos to him,' Logano exclaimed.

But even in the midst of the beard craze, Team Penske's boss, Roger Penske, couldn't resist intervening. As Blaney ascended the stage to collect his championship trophy in Nashville, it was clear that the beard would not survive the momentous occasion. However, those months of flaunting his bushy locks made Blaney an anomaly in the world of impeccably groomed racers benefiting from Penske's attention to detail.

Ryan Blaney's journey to become a NASCAR champion is nothing short of extraordinary. In 2017, he secured his first Cup win for Team Penske at Pocono, beating none other than Kevin Harvick. Little did he know that this victory would be a defining moment in his career, proving that he possessed the mettle to be a winner.

Blaney's connection to Team Penske was not a coincidence. His father, Dave Blaney, took matters into his own hands in 2012, accompanying his 19-year-old son on a tour of the big teams in NASCAR. They explored options with JR Motorsports and Joe Gibbs Racing, but there was already a familiarity at Team Penske. Brad Keselowski had given Ryan the opportunity to race in nine Truck Series events that year, establishing a foundation with the prestigious organization.

Fast forward to 2021, and Ryan Blaney has become a pillar of Team Penske's success story. Together with his teammate Josef Newgarden, he accomplished an unprecedented feat, winning both the Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on the same day. This double triumph marked a significant milestone for Team Penske and showcased Blaney's talent on a global stage.

Reflecting on his journey, Blaney expressed gratitude for being a part of Roger Penske's legacy of excellence. The graphic that outlines the organization's triumphs over the past six seasons boasts an impressive 12 championships, 148 race wins, and 139 poles. For Blaney, being a small part of this incredible success is humbling. He cherishes the opportunity to contribute two firsts for Roger, winning the iconic Indy 500 and the prestigious Coca-Cola 600. Moreover, bringing home back-to-back Cup championships for Penske is an achievement that holds a special place in his heart.

Ryan Blaney's story proves that determination and unwavering support can turn dreams into reality. His remarkable journey from a young racer searching for a team to a championship-winning driver showcases his passion, talent, and undeniable potential. Roger Penske's ability to recognize winners and build championship teams is a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence.

As the dust settles on another exhilarating NASCAR season, Ryan Blaney stands tall, his championship trophy a symbol of his triumph over adversity. With a clean-shaven face now, he looks to the future, eager to continue his success and add more chapters to the incredible legacy of Team Penske.