Ryan Preece, a NASCAR driver from Berlin, Connecticut, sits 50 points behind Shane van Gisbergen in the chase for the final spot in the playoffs. The stakes are high as the season heads into its climax, and Preece knows that a strong performance at New Hampshire Motor Speedway could be the turning point.
Homegrown Advantage
Preece’s connection to New England runs deep. He spends time with his family‑owned team at minor‑league races, and his crew includes longtime local supporters such as the driver nicknamed ‘John the Plumber.’ This network of familiar faces gives him a unique edge on the track.
New Hampshire Motor Speedway is more than just another venue for Preece; it is a place he has called home since his teenage years. In 2021 he captured a Modified Series victory there, and his 40 NASCAR starts at the track reflect a deep familiarity that he hopes will translate into a Cup Series win.
The Competition
Ford drivers have historically dominated at New Hampshire, leading 275 of 301 laps last year and occupying three of the top four finishing positions. This year, favorites include Ryan Blaney, Joey Logano and Christopher Bell, each listed with odds that reflect their strong performances on the 1.058‑mile oval.
Blaney will be presented with a 20‑pound lobster trophy on Sunday, a tradition that began when Joey Logano won the inaugural ‘Loudon the Lobster’ award in 2009. The trophy has become a symbolic nod to the region’s maritime heritage and adds a festive flair to the event.
Christopher Bell, a past winner at New Hampshire, notes that the team’s refreshed season benefits from a recent schedule break, giving them extra preparation time before the race. Meanwhile, Hendrick Motorsports, the winningest team in NASCAR history, last captured victory at the track in July 2012, underscoring the competitive landscape.
What’s at Stake
For Preece, the race is more than a points battle; it is an opportunity to add a Cup Series win to a career that already includes a Modified Series triumph at the same venue. He emphasizes that his New England roots are not just a geographic advantage but a source of personal pride and motivation.