Joey Logano claimed the pole position during Saturday’s qualifying session at Phoenix Raceway, marking his third pole at this venue. Logano set a Next Gen track record with a lap time of 26.561 seconds and a speed of 135.537 mph, surpassing the previous Gen 7 record held by Martin Truex Jr., who posted a 26.718-second lap at 134.741 mph during the 2024 championship race. This improvement is largely attributable to an increase in horsepower, as engine power has risen from 670HP in the 2022-2025 Cup Series to 750HP for 2026.
Despite Logano’s feat, the all-time track record remains intact. Jimmie Johnson set the fastest lap ever at Phoenix in 2015 during the Quicken Loans Race for Heroes 500, clocking 25.147 seconds at 143.158 mph. That record was achieved in a season defined by a combination of high horsepower and significant downforce, resulting in a lap 1.571 seconds faster than the current Gen 7 quickest time.
Key Performances in Practice Sessions
Several drivers posted notable times during the practice rounds leading up to qualifying. Daniel Suarez recorded the fastest single lap at 26.877 seconds, while Chris Buescher posted the best overall average lap time of 27.771 seconds. Austin Cindric dominated the multi-lap averages, setting the top marks for 10, 15, 20, and 25-lap runs, demonstrating strong endurance speed in his Next Gen car. Carson Hocevar led the 5-lap average category, and Ross Chastain had the fastest 30-lap average.
Starting Grid Updates and Penalties Influence Race Setup
The starting lineup for the Phoenix race faced adjustments after practice incidents. Brad Keselowski, Chris Buescher, and Riley Herbst each suffered flat tires during practice, with Keselowski unable to complete a qualifying lap and consequently starting at the back of the field. Tyler Reddick experienced a spin but avoided vehicle damage and will start 8th.
Significant disciplinary action was taken against Zane Smith’s team for unauthorized modifications. NASCAR communications confirmed that the No. 38 car was observed making an unapproved underbody adjustment during pre-qualifying practice. As a result, the car chief, Will Norris, was ejected from the event, and the team will start at the rear, with the driver required to serve a drive-through penalty after the race begins.
“The No. 38 in the NASCAR Cup Series was observed making an unapproved adjustment to the underbody during practice/pre-qualifying adjustments. The vehicle was reinspected prior to practice/qualifying session. The No. 38 car chief (Will Norris) has been ejected from the Phoenix…” — NASCAR Communications
Drivers and Teams to Monitor During the Race
Team Penske continues to assert dominance at Phoenix since the introduction of the Next Gen car, evidenced by their strong pace in both short and long runs throughout practice. They occupy the 1st, 3rd, and 5th starting spots, positioning themselves as favorites. Tyler Reddick pursues a remarkable fourth consecutive victory despite historically modest results at this track, backed by solid momentum and an 8th place starting position.
Defending Phoenix winner Christopher Bell is considered a specialist on short tracks and will start 12th. Denny Hamlin, who nearly clinched the championship last season, is a contender despite unremarkable practice speeds and begins the race from 11th place. Other drivers expected to make an impact include Ross Chastain, Carson Hocevar, Josh Berry, and Kyle Larson, each bringing experience and speed to the intense competition.
Implications and Outlook for the Phoenix Cup Race
Joey Logano’s record-setting qualifying performance highlights the evolving capabilities within the Next Gen era, made possible by increased horsepower and vehicle development. The challenges facing teams such as Zane Smith’s penalty underscore the tight regulations and pressures in competitive setups. With multiple strong contenders from Team Penske and other top drivers like Reddick and Bell, the upcoming race at Phoenix shapes up to be highly competitive and unpredictable.
This event carries significant weight for championship dynamics as drivers and teams will seek to capitalize on track position and vehicle performance. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Logano can convert his record-setting pole advantage into a race win, and how penalties and mechanical issues may influence the final outcome.
The No. 38 in the NASCAR Cup Series was observed making an unapproved adjustment to the underbody during practice/pre-qualifying adjustments. The vehicle was reinspected prior to practice/qualifying session.
The No. 38 car chief (Will Norris) has been ejected from the Phoenix…— NASCAR Communications (@NASCAR_Comms) March 7, 2026
