Ryan Blaney captures NASCAR Cup pole position at Bristol

Blaney earns his first pole since last August, bumping points leader Tyler Reddick from the top spot.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 12:44am

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An abstract, expressionist painting featuring bold, neon-colored brushstrokes that capture the high-energy movement and intensity of a NASCAR race at Bristol Motor Speedway.The electric atmosphere of a NASCAR race at Bristol Motor Speedway is captured in a vibrant, expressionist painting.Bristol Today

Ryan Blaney has captured the pole position for the NASCAR Cup Series race at Bristol Motor Speedway, his first pole since last August. Blaney bumped points leader Tyler Reddick from the top spot in qualifying.

Why it matters

Earning the pole position is an important accomplishment in NASCAR, as it gives the driver the best starting position for the race and can provide a strategic advantage. Blaney's pole position at Bristol, a short track known for its intense racing, could set him up for a strong performance in the upcoming race.

The details

Blaney posted the fastest lap time in qualifying, edging out Reddick for the pole position. This marks Blaney's first pole since last August, giving him a prime starting spot for the Bristol race.

  • Blaney captured the pole position on Saturday, April 11, 2026.

The players

Ryan Blaney

A NASCAR Cup Series driver who has captured the pole position for the upcoming race at Bristol Motor Speedway.

Tyler Reddick

The current points leader in the NASCAR Cup Series, who was bumped from the pole position by Blaney in qualifying.

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What they’re saying

“Cool start to the weekend,”

— Ryan Blaney, NASCAR Cup Series driver

The takeaway

Blaney's pole position at Bristol gives him a strategic advantage heading into the race, as he will start in the front row. This could be an important step in his pursuit of a strong finish and potentially his first win of the season.