{
  "id": 15521705,
  "title": "What Cup drivers said after win by Tyler Reddick at Phoenix Raceway",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/19/what-cup-drivers-said-after-win-by-tyler-reddick-at-phoenix-raceway",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-19T00:15:44.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/cup-drivers-said-win-tyler-001544169.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Tyler Reddick, the winner of the race at Phoenix Raceway, expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance. He praised their hard work and motivation throughout the event, stating that they had achieved their goal of being a better team. Reddick acknowledged the unexpected nature of the win, attributing it to some fortunate circumstances and effective strategies from the crew chief, Billy Scott.\n\nRyan Blaney, who finished second, mentioned that he was a few mistakes away from a top-three position, despite initially having a good launch and favorable track position. He complimented the team's consistent efforts and positive progress throughout the day, despite some challenges in the latter stages.\n\nChase Elliott, finishing third, was surprised by the outcome, as he expected more competitors to stay out on the track. He noted that the decision to use two tires and scuffs may not have significantly impacted his performance. Elliott highlighted the solid day of work by the No. 9 Chevrolet team, commenting on the encouraging improvements they made during the race.\n\nChristopher Bell, in fourth place, expressed his pride in the team's ability to develop fast race cars and execute strategies effectively. He acknowledged that their performance might have waned as the day progressed, but he commended the group for their overall consistency and race car quality.\n\nCorey Heim, who secured fifth position, emphasized the tough challenges he faced in Stage 1, where he was trapped in \"dirty air\" and struggled to gain any track position. Despite these difficulties, Heim praised his car's speed and potential, feeling that just one or two mistakes away from a top-three finish.\n\nJoey Logano, placing sixth, acknowledged that while the win was lost, the team still led several laps and won two stages. He recognized the significant points gained, which he considered a positive outcome despite the unfortunate \"hiccup\" that cost them the victory. Logano expressed optimism about the team's chances, asserting that they were still in a strong position going into the final races of the season.\n\nDaniel Suarez, in seventh place, acknowledged the mixed results of the day, citing both good and bad pit stops and various challenges faced by the team. He affirmed that the No. 7 team never gave up, maintaining a strong effort throughout the race. Suarez expressed pride in the team's collective performance, contributing to another top-10 finish this season.\n\nRoss Chastain, placing ninth, highlighted the team's solid performance in putting themselves towards the front of the pack and making precise adjustments throughout the race. He discussed the varied weather conditions, which affected their car's performance throughout the day. Despite the loss, Chastain expressed satisfaction with the finish and the overall day at Phoenix Raceway.",
  "summary": "The 23XI Racing driver earned his first win since April, ending a 23-race drought.",
  "key_points": [
    "Tyler Reddick praised team's hard work and motivation.",
    "Ryan Blaney noted team's consistent efforts and positive progress.",
    "Joey Logano acknowledged team's lead in several laps and points gained."
  ],
  "editors_take": "Strategic tire choices and crew execution are shifting the competitive balance, allowing teams to overcome mid-race challenges and secure vital positions heading into the final races of the season.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}