Since clinching the 2024 Cup Series title, Joey Logano has sparked ongoing debate within the NASCAR community about the fairness of the playoff system. Despite an average finish of 17.1 last season, many question whether the Team Penske driver truly deserves his spot in the playoffs.
Although his performance has seemed inconsistent on the way to this year’s championship, Logano remains among the 12 drivers advancing to the next playoff round. His outlook ahead of the upcoming race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway suggests he is ready to prove his critics wrong.
Logano Addresses Critics and Stakes His Claim in the Playoffs
Known as the ‘King of the Playoffs’ in NASCAR, Joey Logano carries a controversial legacy due largely to the structure of the playoff system. As a three-time Cup Series champion, his success has often been met with skepticism, but Logano understands the rules better than most and knows how to leverage them.
Last season, the No. 22 driver mastered the timing of his victories, and his recent comments indicate he intends to apply the same strategy once again. Speaking to Mass Live a few days before the New Hampshire race, the 35-year-old expressed confidence despite being two points shy of the cutoff for the Round of 8.
Calling Connecticut his home turf, Logano views the New Hampshire track favorably and feels his team has historically performed well there. His confidence in their chances remains high as they prepare for this important contest.
He stated,
“We have to go out there and do our thing. We are going to go out there and perform and Loudon is a fun track. It has been a very good track for us and I feel we should be strong there. If we win, we move on to the round of eight and if not, we need stage points and an honest finish would help.”
— Joey Logano, NASCAR driver
Chasing Another Victory at New Hampshire to Advance
Logano aims to secure his third career win at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, which would automatically qualify him for the Round of 8. Having captured two of the last three championships, he aspires to become the first driver in the modern era to win consecutive titles.
While his 2025 season has seen challenges, the team’s veteran still focuses on executing his strengths. His position just below the playoff cutoff underscores the importance of a strong showing in the upcoming race.
The playoff race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway is scheduled for Sunday, September 22, 2025, beginning at 2 p.m. ET. This event marks the start of the Round of 12, making it a critical moment for Logano and his rivals as the championship battle intensifies.
Logano’s blend of experience, determination, and knowledge of the playoff system positions him as a central figure in this year’s NASCAR postseason drama. How he performs at Loudon could shape his path toward another potential championship run.
