Joey Logano: Champion focuses on team instead of criticism

Three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Joey Logano is making his mark as a legend in the sport, yet he’s no stranger to criticism. While some argue that the current playoff system diminishes his achievements, Logano pays little attention to detractors. For him, the focus remains on celebrating victories with his team and mastering the system designed to crown champions.

Embracing the Playoffs, Ignoring the Noise

At 34, Logano has become the most successful driver under NASCAR’s modern playoff format, which has been in place since 2014. After clinching his third title at Phoenix, he enthusiastically exclaimed, “I love the playoffs!”

Despite this success, critics question the format, claiming it rewards short bursts of excellence rather than season-long dominance. Statistically, Logano’s 2024 championship came with the lowest average finish of any champion in NASCAR history (17.1). However, he remains steadfast in his defense:

“We executed the best and won the championship. That’s what matters. Teams need to show up when it matters most, and that’s exactly what we did.”

Logano compares the playoff system to other major sports, where teams must deliver in high-pressure, postseason scenarios. While acknowledging that some fans may dislike change, he believes the system has elevated excitement and fairness in the sport.

Team Penske: Masters of Strategy

Success under the playoff format isn’t about dominating every race; it’s about showing up when it counts. This philosophy has become the hallmark of Team Penske. Unlike powerhouse teams like Joe Gibbs Racing and Hendrick Motorsports, Penske prioritizes strategy over regular-season domination, ensuring their drivers peak during the playoffs.

Logano’s 2024 title run demonstrated this approach. After a shaky Round of 12 that nearly eliminated him, he received a lifeline when Alex Bowman was disqualified for an underweight car. With renewed determination, Logano capitalized, winning the next race in Las Vegas to secure his spot in the Championship 4 at Phoenix.

“We don’t waste opportunities,” Logano said. “We took that second chance and turned it into a win. Then we prepared our car for Phoenix and made it count.”

Team Penske’s adaptability extends beyond Logano. Ryan Blaney’s 2023 championship and Austin Cindric’s key playoff performances prove their mastery of the format. Their focus isn’t on overwhelming competitors during the regular season but on precision and execution when it matters most.

Celebrating the Team

For Logano, championships aren’t just about personal glory. He treasures the moments shared with his team after victories—the first minutes crossing the finish line, the celebrations with families, and the lasting impact on everyone involved. “The coolest part is celebrating with your team,” Logano said. “You don’t do it for the record books. You do it for the feeling of victory and what it means to everyone.”

This team-first mentality defines Logano’s approach to racing. Each championship is a testament to the collective effort of everyone at Team Penske, from the engineers to the crew members.

Building a Legacy

While critics may continue to debate the merits of NASCAR’s playoff format, Logano remains focused on what he can control—winning and celebrating. His three championships highlight his ability to adapt and thrive under the system, solidifying his place as one of the greatest drivers of his generation.

As the playoff era evolves, Joey Logano and Team Penske are proving they’re built for the moment, turning critics’ doubts into triumphs. For Logano, the satisfaction comes not just from titles but from the team that helps him achieve them.