P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Ryan Blaney’s victory Sunday night at Iowa Speedway accomplished more than getting the No. 12 team back to victory lane. It checked a box the reigning series champions have prioritized this season.…
Ryan Blaney’s victory at Iowa Speedway not only brought the No. 12 team back to victory lane but also fulfilled a season priority for the reigning series champions. Crew chief Jonathan Hassler emphasized the team’s goal of being strong during the summer stretch, a goal they succeeded in post-victory. Despite the official start of summer not being until June 20, in NASCAR, the season’s peak traditionally begins after Memorial Day weekend. Blaney and the team have significantly improved from last year’s struggles during the summer races. The victory bumped Blaney up to seventh in the championship standings and showcased their recent success in leading laps. Blaney’s determination to avoid the mid-season slump from last year paid off with consecutive top-10 finishes at Sonoma and Iowa, marking a turning point in their performance.
