Joey Logano, the defending NASCAR Cup Series champion and native of New England, secured the pole position during qualifying for the Mobil 1 301 NCS Playoffs race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway (NHMS) on Saturday. This achievement positions Logano at the front of the grid for Sunday’s important race, highlighting the significance of the event for both the driver and the region.
Logano Highlights Personal Connection to New Hampshire Race
Logano expressed a deep connection to NHMS and the local fans as he reflected on the importance of racing in New England. He said,
“It’s New Hampshire…it means a lot. It’s neat when I do come to Loudon, because I feel like I am representing everyone who lives around here. You gotta root for the hometown guy. It’s fun to enjoy that piece of it,”
showcasing his pride in competing close to home. He also mentioned Loudon as a track where his team performs well, noting,
“When I look at Loudon on the schedule, I feel like it’s one of the racetracks in my wheelhouse. It seems like it’s a Team Penske kind of thing.”
Logano shared a nostalgic moment about watching a Modified race with his son, highlighting a family tradition tied to this venue. He remarked,
“I was watching the Modified race with my son – my oldest son – and you just kind of go back. He’s seven. I was seven the first time I came here. I was watching the races this morning, like, ‘This is pretty cool,’ so it’s a full circle moment.”
Starting Lineup and Teammate Positioning at NHMS
Joining Logano on the front row will be his Team Penske teammate Ryan Blaney, who qualified with a lap time of 29.239 seconds in his No. 12 Ford, securing the second starting position. Another Penske affiliate, Josh Berry, will start third with a lap time of 29.354 seconds driving the No. 21 car. This strong front-row presence reflects Team Penske’s competitive edge heading into the Mobil 1 301 race.
Historic Context and Event Details for the Mobil 1 301
The Mobil 1 301 represents the 53rd NASCAR Cup Series race hosted at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. The track’s qualifying record is held by Brad Keselowski, who set a blistering lap at 140.598 mph (27.090 seconds) in September 2014. Sunday’s Mobil 1 301, a crucial event launching the Round of 12 in the NASCAR Playoffs, is scheduled to begin with the green flag at 2 p.m.
Fan Experience and Playoffs Week at NHMS
This race weekend is New England’s only NASCAR Playoffs event, promising an exciting atmosphere for attendees. Beyond the on-track action, fans can enjoy a variety of activities such as Trackside Live, The Groove fan hangout, and multiple driver appearances. Additionally, the event features several live performances, enhancing the overall race day experience for all ages.
Tickets for the Mobil 1 301 and the associated Playoffs weekend are available through NHMS, with a special rate for children 12 and under at just $10 for Sunday’s race. Options for camping are also offered, allowing fans to fully immerse themselves in the weekend festivities. Attendees and followers can stay informed via social media channels on Facebook, X, and Instagram, as well as through the official NHMS website and mobile app.
Looking Ahead: Mobil 1 301’s Role in the NASCAR Playoffs
Securing the pole at NHMS gives Joey Logano a crucial advantage as he competes on familiar ground in the Mobil 1 301. This race marks the start of the Round of 12, making strong performances vital for drivers to advance in the playoffs. With a passionate hometown crowd and strong team presence from Team Penske, Logano’s Mobil 1 Pole sets a hopeful and motivated tone for the weekend’s high-stakes competition at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.
