Ryan Blaney Admits Missing Indy 500 Due to NASCAR Duty, Calls It a Post-Retirement Dream

Ryan Blaney reveals why he’s never attended the Indy 500, citing NASCAR commitments, while calling the iconic race a must-experience after retirement

Surbhi Khera
April 14, 2026
4 min read

Ryan Blaney Admits Missing Indy 500 Due to NASCAR Duty, Calls It a Post-Retirement Dream — Randy Sartin-Imagn Images

For drivers at the top level, racing is notjust a career, it often comes at the cost of missing out on iconic moments within their own sport. Much like how global stars such as Lewis Hamilton have spoken about personal bucket-list ambitions beyond Formula 1, NASCAR drivers too carry experiences they’ve had to put on hold.

The challenge becomes even more evident when major motorsport events overlap on the calendar. The Indy 500, held annually on Memorial Day weekend, coincides directly with NASCAR’s busiest stretch, leaving little room for crossover experiences.

Despite being one of the most prestigious races in the world, it remains an event many stock car drivers have not witnessed in person. The timing alone has kept them tied to their own commitments year after year.

Ryan Blaney now joins that list, opening up about how scheduling conflicts have kept him away, and why the legendary event remains one of the first things he wants to experience once his racing career slows down.

1. Ryan Blaney says NASCAR schedule kept him from Indy 500

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Speaking in a recent interview shared by Peter Stratta, Ryan Blaney admitted that he has never attended the Indy 500 despite its stature in motorsport. ‘I’d love to go to the Indy 500,’ Blaney said, joking that he’s always busy racing on Memorial Day Sunday. With the iconic race taking place during one of NASCAR’s busiest weekends, Blaney explained that his schedule has never allowed him the opportunity to be there. The overlap has effectively kept him from experiencing one of racing’s biggest spectacles firsthand. Looking ahead, Blaney revealed that attending the event properly is a priority once he retires. Rather than making a quick appearance, he plans to spend several days in Indianapolis to fully take in the atmosphere. Beyond that, the Team Penske driver also highlighted Bristol as one of the top tracks where he is still chasing a win. Despite coming close multiple times, it remains one of the few venues he is eager to conquer.

2. Ryan Blaney is open to All-Star race changes, but wants Charlotte return

Speaking about the All-Star Race shifting to Dover this year, Ryan Blaney shared his thoughts on NASCAR experimenting with different venues. ‘I’m honestly a pretty open book with stuff like that,’ Blaney said, adding that he enjoys when the sport brings events to new locations. The Team Penske driver highlighted how destination-style races add variety to the schedule. Referencing past stops like Texas and now Dover, Blaney noted that changing venues helps ‘switch the pace up’ and keeps the experience fresh for both drivers and fans. At the same time, Blaney admitted he still values the tradition behind the event. ‘I would love to see them bring it back to Charlotte, just because that’s where it all started,’ he said, pointing to the track’s historic connection with the All-Star Race. Looking ahead, Blaney even suggested a format tweak, proposing a midweek showcase. He said a Wednesday or Thursday night race turned into a four-day celebration of racing ‘would be great,’ blending innovation with the sport’s roots.

3. What’s next for Ryan Blaney?

Speaking ahead of the Bristol race weekend, Ryan Blaney emphasized the importance of adapting to changing track conditions. ‘I think just being ready for the track to change is the biggest thing for me,’ Blaney said, pointing to how the surface is expected to evolve during the race. The Bristol poll sitter explained that the racing line will shift as the event progresses. ‘It’s going to run one way for a little bit, but it’s going to change eventually,’ he added, highlighting the unpredictability drivers will face. Blaney also noted how multiple racing grooves could come into play. ‘Tomorrow, we’re going to be everywhere, ‘cause the top (lane) is going to come in tomorrow,’ he said, stressing how different lines will demand different approaches throughout the race, scheduled for 12th April 3:00 PM ET. Coming off a strong qualifying performance and consistent recent finishes at Bristol, Blaney remains optimistic. With momentum on his side, he now eyes a breakthrough win at one of the few tracks that still remains unfinished business in his career.