NASCAR driver Joey Logano especially enjoys the end of August, as it marks the start of the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs. This is the most anticipated period of the year for Logano, even though he sometimes describes it as the most “exhausting” and “unpleasant”.
However, Logano acknowledges that this is the time that offers the greatest rewards, where he and his team demonstrate what they are made of and star in crucial moments. He believes that this format is beneficial for the sport, generating dramatic moments that fans adore.
It’s the most exhausting time, perhaps the most unpleasant of the year, but it’s also the time that has the greatest reward, and the time when you can show what you and your team are made of, and make great moments.
Joey Logano
Logano, who drives the No. 22 Ford Mustang for Team Penske, has won three Cup Series championships. His first title came in 2018, followed by the second in 2022 and the third last year. This trajectory places him in a privileged position, alongside legends like Cale Yarborough, David Pearson, Lee Petty, Darrell Waltrip, and Tony Stewart.
Now, Logano aims for his fourth title, which would place him in an even more select group, alongside Jeff Gordon. Although he acknowledges that achieving four championships would be “incredible”, he also admits that there will always be missed opportunities. Currently, the only drivers with more titles in the Cup Series are Richard Petty, Dale Earnhardt, and Jimmie Johnson, who achieved seven championships in their careers.
Logano’s title defense begins with a feeling similar to 2024 and 2018. He has experienced exceptional regular seasons that didn’t translate into championships, as well as years where the regular season wasn’t outstanding, but ended with the top prize. Currently, he finds himself in this latter situation. Although he wasn’t the most dominant driver in the regular season, with only one victory, he had other opportunities that he didn’t capitalize on. Despite this, his position in 12th place in the overall standings at the end of the first 26 races secures him a place in the playoffs.Logano values his team’s ability to perform at their best when they are most needed. He highlights the experience and perseverance of his team, who have proven their worth on repeated occasions. He states that the 22 team, along with Team Penske, excel in these moments.
After Logano won the title after starting the regular season in 15th place, a debate arose as to whether the champion was the most deserving driver. Despite the criticism, Logano has been a staunch defender of the playoff format. In the elimination era (2014-present), Logano shares with Denny Hamlin the record for most appearances in the Round of 8 (nine) and leads in appearances in the Championship 4 (six). With three championships, he is the active driver with the most titles in the Cup Series and also leads active drivers with 15 playoff wins.
NASCAR formed a playoff committee after the 2024 season, due to the controversy generated by the format. Possible changes are being discussed, such as the points structure, eliminations, and the possibility of moving away from a single-race final. Logano is part of this committee, along with former drivers, media partners, team owners, manufacturers, and track representatives.
Logano suggests that some aspects of the format could be simplified, such as the coexistence of two points systems, but he is not in favor of changing it completely. He believes that the current system generates emotion and drama, which are essential for the sport’s appeal.
Logano is ready to face the next two months and prove his worth once more.
