Tom Cruise's teammate or rival? NASCAR drivers pitch for 'Days of Thunder' sequel

Ryan Blaney’s crossover into film and TV is getting attention as NASCAR drivers weigh in on Tom Cruise’s announced “Days of Thunder” sequel. Speaking in Charlotte, N.C., Blaney—who drives the No. 12 Ford for Team Penske—described how he’s used screen roles in projects such as “Cars 3,” “Logan Lucky,” “Taken” and “Magnum P.I.” Acting, he said, appeals because motorsports involves many behind-the-scenes contributors. NASCAR’s street course at Naval Base Coronado recently featured Blaney as a lead on Amazon’s “NASCAR vs. Navy” short film. Cruise is set to star and produce the sequel, releasing June 2, 2028, with Anne Hathaway. Drivers including Carson Hocevar say they’ve already spoken with the filmmakers about racing details.