The recent championship victory of Ryan Blaney has drawn accolades from the NASCAR realm and beyond. And that includes nods of approval even from esteemed figures like Dale Earnhardt Jr.—a testament to the reputation of Blaney. Known for his clean racing, avoidance of driver disputes, and commendable comportment, Blaney is also recognized for his exceptional driving skills.

Nonetheless, NASCAR is unpredictable, and even the most composed drivers can reach their boiling point. That seemed to be the case for Blaney during the Phoenix finale. His frustration was palpable, not through reckless driving but through expressive hand gestures and movements that caught everyone’s eye, including that of his ex-mentor, Dale Earnhardt Jr, who notably came to Blaney’s defense against the broadcasters’ tactics.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. was every bit the supportive mentor for Ryan Blaney

The atmosphere was electric, with team owners and fans on edge and drivers fueled by the dream of securing their legacy as the season’s champion. In the cockpit, tensions ran high as the race heated up, with every driver pushing their limits.

The same was the case with Ryan Blaney. His racing experience in Phoenix was a rollercoaster of emotions. He wrestled with his car’s performance, urging his crew chief, Jonathon Hassler, to fine-tune the No. 12 car at each pit stop. His frustration bubbled over as he watched Ross Chastain strategically block his every move, leading to Blaney’s expressive hand gestures that likely ruffled some feathers on live TV.

While Hassler’s adjustments may have been a factor in Blaney clinching the championship, it was Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s support from the commentary booth that stood out. Despite broadcasters seemingly eager to capitalize on the drama, Earnhardt Jr. called for a focus on the race, not the outbursts.

Reflecting on his podcast, he appreciated the raw emotion, saying, “I like the cursing. It gives us great audio. They play it during the commercial. They’re like, listen to Blaney. I’m like, y’all have to put that on air, and they’re like, Oh, we’re gonna. The funniest part for me is we’re riding along with him in the car, and he’s driving along, and he’s just flipping his hand. He’s like, (grunts) over and over. He’s getting so frustrated. And the one car in front of him just kind of driving the same line, lap after lap. And Blaine is like flipping his hand in the air.”

Blaney’s frustrations swiftly shifted to overwhelming emotion as the race concluded. In an unexpected turn, the championship driver didn’t take the checkered flag; that honor went to Ross Chastain. Despite leading a dominant 157 laps, Chastain had previously been knocked out of playoff contention in the round of 12.

Watch This Story: Dale Earnhardt Jr: A Tale of Unseen Battles

As the race drew to a close, Blaney’s animated interactions with Chastain caught attention, but a seasoned NASCAR icon suggested Chastain hadn’t crossed any lines with Blaney. The race was a testament to the fine line between fierce competition and the raw passion that defines NASCAR.

NASCAR expert extends his support to Ross Chastain amid the heated debates following the Phoenix final

The buzz post-race centered on the intense competition and tactical blocking between the Team Penske newcomer in the Championship Four and the non-contending Trackhouse Racing driver. Amidst criticism aimed at Chastain for his aggressive stance with Ryan Blaney, Kyle Petty offered a different perspective.

On the NASCAR channel, the racing veteran shared that Chastain’s uncompromising racing style didn’t come as a shock. Known for stirring the pot in the racing world since his ascent, Chastain was unyielding during the race, giving Blaney a tough time on the track. Petty defended this approach, stating, “I also believe it’s okay for Ross Chastain to take away the line of the second-place car, which was Ryan Blaney, no matter whether he is running for a championship or not.”

Read More: “I Was Begging for His Helmet”- Ryan Blaney Reveals Last Resort To Claim Bubba Wallace’s Prized Star Wars Possession

The tension escalated when Blaney intentionally nudged Chastain’s car, a move he confessed post-race. Well, what’s your take on Ryan Blaney’s assertive tactics on the track, especially when they arguably led to his championship victory?