NASCAR Cup Series driver Ryan Preece may be known for his grit behind the wheel, but it turns out his competitive edge extends far beyond the racetrack. In a recent interview with veteran racing journalist Jeff Gluck, Preece shared a surprisingly relatable and hilarious off-track rivalry he shares with his wife Heather DesRochers.
Ryan Preece Admits Fierce Rivalry With Wife During Rare Off-Track Battles
When asked in an interview with Gluck about the last time he got overly competitive outside of racing, Preece didn’t hesitate. “Usually, whenever my wife and I go mini-golfing,” he said. “I don’t like to lose, and the tough part about it is she doesn’t either.”
According to Preece, the intensity of these friendly mini golf sessions often leads to long cool-off periods before they try again. “So usually, (it) will be our one mini-golf game for the next two or three years until we decide we’re bored enough to go do it again,” he joked.
Gluck tried to offer some consolation and hopeful optimism, “It won’t go bad this time,” he said. “That’s what we always say,” quipped Preece.
The story adds a charming layer to Preece’s often stern public persona, giving fans a glimpse at his personal life and the competitive fire that fuels him even during date night. It also shows how athletes like Preece carry their high-stakes mindset into everyday activities, even if only jokingly.
Talking about why his personality gets mistaken, Preece added, “My wife says I’m unapproachable. I think I’m pretty approachable. But when you’re in your element at the racetrack, I’m pretty focused, so I can be mislabeled as unapproachable at times.”
Currently racing in the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season with RFK Racing, Preece is known for his short-track toughness. However, his drive has certainly been tested on the track this season. Most recently at Talladega, he was disqualified after NASCAR inspectors found his No. 60 Ford to be non-compliant.
The violation stemmed from an “unapproved shim” setup in the rear spoiler area. Normally, where only two shims are allowed, Preece’s car likely had three. As a result, Preece was officially dropped to 38th in the final standings. With several mid-pack finishes and such setbacks, he’s still fighting to hold on to his Top 20 in the points standings. At present, Preece is in 18th place with 202 points.
Off the track, this hilarious rivalry with his wife shows that the same drive for winning is present throughout the Preece household, especially making for some spirited mini golf showdowns.
- Source: NEWHD MEDIA
