Blaney’s inaugural title, clinched in last November’s season finale at Phoenix, marked the second consecutive championship for Penske and the fourth overall. In 2012, Brad Keselowski secured Penske’s first Cup championship, while Joey Logano has claimed two titles under the team’s banner.
With an impressive Hall of Fame-worthy resume, Penske, who turns 87 on Feb. 20, continues to achieve success. Beyond Blaney’s championship, Josef Newgarden, Penske’s IndyCar driver, triumphed in the Indianapolis 500 last May, marking Penske’s 19th Indy 500 victory.
Adding to the recent victories, Porsche Penske Motorsport secured the Rolex 24 at Daytona last month, marking the organization’s first win in the event in 55 years.
Reflecting on his championship win, Blaney, speaking at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, expressed gratitude, saying, “Joey’s won a couple (Cup titles), I was just getting to the organization when Brad won his as well. I feel like I’ve done something really nice for the whole company, the organization, and RP and everyone working there.”
Blaney, 30, who had a successful Cup career before last season, achieved his best championship result with a seventh-place finish on two occasions. His breakthrough came last year, with two crucial wins in the 10-race playoff, securing his first appearance in the Championship 4 at Phoenix.
Although he finished second in the season finale, he outperformed the other title contenders, fending off Kyle Larson to clinch the championship.
Commenting on Penske’s recent successes, Blaney said, “RP has had a big six months and really the past year – the (Coca-Cola) 600, the (Indy) 500, a Cup championship, and now a win at Daytona in the 24 Hours. It’s nice to keep adding to the list. You want to add to those titles and wins and history for RP and that team.”
When asked about his most enjoyable experience since winning the Cup title, Blaney emphasized the significance of sharing the victory with everyone involved.
He highlighted the collective effort, stating, “It’s not just me – it’s hundreds of other people that put a lot into it. I think sharing that with them, walking through the race shop, seeing everybody, seeing the families, that to me is the coolest thing. Just to see how much it means all around.”
While relishing the championship celebrations, Blaney and his No. 12 Ford team are gearing up for the upcoming season with new objectives.
Looking ahead, he stated, “What’s next? We got to win the (Daytona) 500. Just keep achieving milestones for RP, win historic races, and bring more championships and stuff like that. Winning the Daytona 24 was great, but right after, we said, ‘Now we need to do it again at Daytona in a couple of weeks.’ It’s at the top of the list right now.”