Alex Bowman, driver for Hendrick Motorsports, has spoken out in defense of Joey Logano’s championship victories amid rising debate around the NASCAR playoff format. Since the introduction of the Next-Gen era and subsequent playoff changes, many fans and drivers have questioned the legitimacy of titles won under the current system. Bowman emphasized that while the playoff format has shifted how championships are decided, it does not diminish the accomplishments of drivers like Logano.
Logano has claimed two championships in this era, facing criticism for relying on clutch performances in the playoffs rather than season-long consistency. Bowman challenged this view, stating that the final results determine the championship’s validity regardless of changes in the points system or format.
Playoff Format Debate: Bowman’s Perspective on Championship Integrity
Bowman addressed the controversy by acknowledging why some in the community express dissatisfaction with the playoff structure, but he firmly rejected the notion that it undermines champion’s legitimacy.
But at the same time, I get why we have the playoffs. And I don’t think having the playoffs makes the champion any less legitimate than a full season format or a different format. I just think I would rather have the full season format.
—Alex Bowman, SpeedFreaks show
He recognizes the appeal of a full-season points system but insists that winning under the current playoff format is equally valid. Bowman pointed out that the pressure and level of competition in the playoffs demand a high level of skill and strategy, making the title hard-earned and deserving.
Bowman expressed frustration with some critics who suggest Logano exploited the system. He highlighted Logano’s strong playoff performances as evidence that he was the driver to beat in those decisive races.
I’ve seen people that try to say that like Joey’s taking advantage of it, right? Because he struggled throughout the year last year, got one win, and then kicked all our asses in the playoffs.
—Alex Bowman
According to Bowman, Logano’s ability to deliver when it mattered most should be seen as a testament to his driving prowess rather than a flaw of the championship system.
Equal Opportunity Under the Current Rules
The Ford driver competed on the same terms as every other elite racer, and his victories reflect success within the rules everyone agrees to follow. Bowman emphasized that attributing Logano’s championships to merely “taking advantage” of the format dismisses the competitive skills required to win.
That doesn’t make him an illegitimate champion. He has the system that we all have to work with, and he worked with it better than the rest of us. I don’t think that makes it illegitimate.
—Alex Bowman
Bowman’s stance makes it clear that championships earned in the Next-Gen playoff system hold equal value to those from previous eras, highlighting the importance of performance in high-pressure situations.
Bowman’s Preference for a Full-Season Points Championship
Despite defending the legitimacy of Logano’s titles, Bowman voiced his personal preference for a return to the traditional full-season, points-based championship format. He expressed nostalgia for the 36-race schedule and believes it rewards consistent performance over the entirety of the season.
As far as what would I change, I’m a 36 week points structure type of guy. That’s what I grew up watching. That’s what I like the most. I think that’s what rewards the entire body of work the most.
—Alex Bowman
Bowman’s viewpoint aligns with longtime NASCAR figures such as Hall of Famer Mark Martin, who has advocated for restoring the older format for years. Nonetheless, NASCAR’s current leadership appears focused on preserving playoff structures to maintain excitement and fan engagement, making a return to a full-season system unlikely in the near term.
Reports suggest that the sport may adjust aspects of the playoff finale format to expand the sample size and balance entertainment with competitive fairness, rather than discarding the playoff concept altogether.
What This Means for NASCAR’s Future
Alex Bowman’s defense of Joey Logano’s championship underscores the evolving conversation within NASCAR about how champions are determined. His measured support of the playoff format paired with a desire for the traditional points system highlights the tension between nostalgia and current racing realities.
As NASCAR looks to refine its championship structure, drivers like Bowman are balancing respect for competitors’ achievements with a push for formats that reward season-long consistency. The discussion reveals the challenges of evolving the sport while maintaining credibility and fan interest in an increasingly competitive environment.
