Joey Logano, the three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, has revealed how becoming a father transformed his attitude toward drinking. Speaking on the Whiskey Riff Raff podcast, Logano explained that parenthood reshaped both his lifestyle and priorities, especially when it comes to alcohol consumption. The Team Penske driver stressed that the responsibility of raising children led him and his wife to reduce their drinking, as he no longer finds it worthwhile to indulge given the demands of fatherhood.
“When you have kids, it changes it all. Like for me, I don’t want to drink in front of my kids. So, that’s one thing that my wife and I don’t really do. But also, they still wake up at six. No matter what time I go to sleep, they’re waking up at 6:00 a.m. So yeah, I better be ready unless it’s going to be a miserable day. So, I don’t find it worth it anymore.”
—Joey Logano, NASCAR Driver
The Influence of Logano’s Father on His Parenting and Character
Logano’s shift in lifestyle goes deeper than just avoiding alcohol; it stems from a desire to lead by example, much like his own father did. The driver shared in an interview with Speed Freaks how his father’s hard work and resilience left a lasting impression on him. Observing his dad returning home with grease-stained hands after a long day at the family business taught Logano the value of dedication and integrity, lessons he now aims to pass along to his own children.
Rather than preaching, Logano believes demonstrating effort and strong character through everyday actions—be it at the garage, in his relationship with his wife, or while managing the spotlight—is the most effective way to teach his kids. For him, fatherhood is a continuous challenge that requires full commitment, likened to running a new race at full speed.
Family Support Provides Balance During Racing Challenges
Logano is known for his ability to maintain a clear separation between his professional life and family time. He sets firm boundaries to protect his home life from the hectic demands of racing, which helps him recover mentally from setbacks on the track. The driver credits marriage and fatherhood with enhancing his perspective on competition and life in general.
He reflected on how racing used to completely dictate his mood and sense of achievement, especially before starting a family.
“To me, it’s made everything better. Perspective in life is important. With racing, it doesn’t take the sting (of losing) away, if I’m being honest. What I have learned, though, is that having more than one thing in your life is healthy. When I was growing up, not being married, didn’t have kids… the only way I can win in life was just racing.”
“So everything pivoted off of Sundays, and that would determine my whole mood for the rest of the week. But now I have other opportunities to win. I can win in family, I could be a great dad, I can be a great husband, I can win all that.”
—Joey Logano, NASCAR Driver
Looking Ahead: Logano’s Goals for Racing and Fatherhood
With one victory already secured this season and a place locked in the NASCAR Cup playoffs, Logano is focused on capturing his fourth championship. History shows he and his team tend to elevate their performance when the stakes rise, making him a formidable contender as the postseason approaches. Meanwhile, fatherhood remains a driving force shaping his mindset and priorities off the track.
By balancing the intensity of racing with the responsibilities at home, Logano demonstrates how fatherhood can inspire personal growth and renewed determination. His evolving perspective on drinking and lifestyle reveals a commitment to setting a positive example for his children while continuing to compete at the highest level.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Does Joey Logano have cerebral palsy?
A. Due to complications during his birth, Joey experienced a brain bleed, resulting in Cerebral Palsy. This condition requires him to undergo frequent physical therapy.
