Ryan Blaney earned his first career NASCAR Cup Series victory at Pocono on Sunday, and his post-race interview on Victory Lane was conducted by fellow driver Brad Keselowski.
Blaney had interviewed Keselowski the day before after the latter had won a NASCAR Xfinity Series race, so Keselowski returned the favor on Sunday.
When Blaney was in the Camping World Truck Series, he drove for Brad Keselowski Racing from 2012-2015. He won four times, and the two drivers have remained close ever since.
Blaney said it was "cool" to see Keselowski's support following his first career win.
"I wouldn't be here without Brad, to be honest with you," Blaney said according to NBC Sports. "He's the one that gave me my start in 2012. I started driving his trucks then and it led to the Penske deal, led to the Wood Brothers deal. I would be nothing if it wasn't for him taking a chance on me. He's been a huge person I've looked up to. For him to do that really, really makes me feel good. It's really cool to see his support still. He's a great person."
Related: A young driver picked up his first career win at Pocono
8 years later I finally know how you felt that day @DaleJr
Congrats @Blaney !
Everyone @TeamBKR is so proud to see you reach the top. ??? pic.twitter.com/mTbYEMxaGK
— Brad Keselowski (@keselowski) June 11, 2017
It's a great feeling!!! Be proud!! https://t.co/uqumO69k7s
— Dale Earnhardt Jr. (@DaleJr) June 11, 2017
Blaney's win sparked praise from his competitors and fans on social media following the race.
Good job @blaney. Congratulations on your first of many cup wins!
— Kyle Busch (@KyleBusch) June 11, 2017
What a race! Thanks again to @KalahariResorts and @RCRracing! Congrats to @Blaney and @woodbrothers21 on their win @poconoraceway! #NASCAR
— Ryan Newman (@RyanJNewman) June 11, 2017
Really popular WIN Ryan @Blaney @woodbrothers21 #Nascar Fabulous job holding off @KevinHarvick.Truly enjoyed watching some awesome driving.
— Mario Andretti (@MarioAndretti) June 11, 2017
Just didn't have the speed we were looking for to be competitive this weekend... but very happy for my buddy @Blaney getting the big Win!?
— Daniel Suárez (@Daniel_SuarezG) June 11, 2017
@Blaney winning his 1st race in that fashion is amazing. Had to hold off one of the sports best in @KevinHarvick. Great race!!!
— Jeff Burton (@JeffBurton) June 11, 2017
How bout this guy! Super stoked for ya pal, very well deserved. https://t.co/scSewtFch1
— Chase Elliott (@chaseelliott) June 11, 2017
IT HAPPENED !!! IT HAPPENED!!! PLAYOFFS !!! WE DONE IT
— Wood Brothers Racing (@woodbrothers21) June 11, 2017
Congrats @Blaney!!!
— Joey Logano (@joeylogano) June 11, 2017
Blaney became the ninth driver to secure a spot in the playoffs. Only 12 races remain, and several high profile drivers are currently on the outside looking in for the playoff picture.
The next race for the NASCAR Cup Series is Sunday, June 19 at Michigan International Speedway.
(h/t NBC Sports)