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Team Penske experienced a challenging practice session for the NASCAR Cup Series at Kansas Speedway, with both Ryan Blaney and Joey Logano encountering tire-related problems. This comes after a dominant showing at New Hampshire, highlighting an unexpected hurdle for the team as they prepare for the upcoming race.

During the practice session, Ryan Blaney's No. 12 Team Penske Ford suffered a tire blowout after completing just four laps, leading to a collision with the Turn 2 outside wall. Although Blaney was unharmed, the incident necessitates a switch to a backup car, meaning he will start the race from the rear of the field. Blaney reported that he received no warning before the tire gave out, suggesting the issue might stem from aggressive air pressures, a known problem at Kansas Speedway earlier in the season.

Further compounding Team Penske's woes, Joey Logano, a three-time and reigning champion, also experienced a flat right-rear tire later in the same practice. Fortunately, Logano was able to slow his vehicle without crashing, attributing the issue to a sudden change in handling. He will proceed with a tire change and vehicle adjustments, hoping for improved performance.

As a safety measure, Austin Cindric, the third driver for Team Penske, did not participate in the rest of the practice session. Despite his caution, Cindric later hit the wall during qualifying, though he still managed to be the highest-qualifying Penske driver in 26th. Logano will start 35th, and Blaney, due to his practice crash and use of a backup car, will begin the race from 37th position.

These repeated tire failures present a significant concern for Team Penske as they navigate the Kansas Speedway event, raising questions about tire strategies and car setups. The team will need to thoroughly analyze the data from practice to prevent further issues and ensure their drivers can compete effectively in the main race.

Following a notable on-track incident at New Hampshire, Denny Hamlin engaged in a series of crucial discussions with Ty Gibbs and the leadership of Joe Gibbs Racing. Hamlin, known for his candidness, offered a brief but insightful glimpse into these meetings, emphasizing their productive nature while maintaining the confidentiality of the specific details. He openly acknowledged that his actions during the incident were fueled by heightened emotions, expressing regret for some of his choices.

The central event sparking these discussions was a controversial on-track entanglement at New Hampshire Speedway. During the race, Denny Hamlin and Ty Gibbs, both representing Joe Gibbs Racing, were involved in an incident that saw Gibbs' car spin into the wall. This occurrence was exacerbated by Gibbs' prior aggressive driving against teammate Christopher Bell, which inadvertently created an opening for Hamlin. The sequence of events led to significant tension within the team, prompting the need for immediate and thorough internal reviews.

On Saturday morning at Kansas Speedway, when pressed for details regarding the aftermath of the New Hampshire incident, Hamlin chose his words carefully. He confirmed that meetings had taken place involving himself, Ty Gibbs, and senior management at Joe Gibbs Racing. While he refrained from divulging the specifics of these conversations, he underscored their positive impact, stating that the team was now 'in a good place'. He humorously conceded that his limited disclosure might not have been what reporters were seeking, but reiterated the confidential nature of the discussions.

Hamlin elaborated that all drivers involved in the New Hampshire event were given the opportunity to voice their perspectives during these sessions. The collective aim was to devise a clear strategy moving forward, ensuring team cohesion and preventing similar occurrences. Hamlin confirmed that a comprehensive plan had been established, though he did not reveal its contents. His brief responses were punctuated by a definitive 'That’s it. That’s all I have,' signaling the conclusion of his remarks on the sensitive topic.

Despite his measured tone regarding the team's resolution, Hamlin candidly admitted to experiencing a surge of emotion during the race. He acknowledged that his temper got the better of him, leading to actions he now wishes he could have handled differently. This self-reflection highlights a commitment to personal accountability and an understanding of the impact of his on-track behavior. His willingness to admit fault underscores the gravity of the incident and the importance of resolving internal conflicts within the racing organization.

In the wake of the New Hampshire incident, Denny Hamlin has indicated that productive, though confidential, meetings have taken place with Ty Gibbs and Joe Gibbs Racing's management. Hamlin admitted to losing his temper during the contentious race, acknowledging regret for certain actions, and confirmed that a plan has been established following input from all involved drivers.