Joey Logano clinched a spot in the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series playoffs with a narrow escape, finishing 20th at the Charlotte ROVAL on Sunday. The Team Penske driver owes his advancement to a critical pit strategy call made by his crew chief, Paul Wolfe, with just 11 laps remaining in the 190-lap race.
Wolfe’s decision to send Logano for a three-tire stop during the final pit visit proved pivotal, allowing Logano to finish four points ahead of Trackhouse Racing’s Ross Chastain, who was eliminated on the race’s last lap. Entering the Round of 12 finale, Logano trailed Chastain by 13 points, underscoring how the strategic call ultimately kept his championship hopes alive.
Logano Reflects on a Nail-Biting Finish and Crew Chief’s Impact
Speaking to NBC Sports after the race, Logano acknowledged the intense nature of the battle.
“Such a close finish there. And yeah, I knew it was within a point there,”
he said.
“And I knew we were going to be tied there at the end. And Ross is going to do whatever he had to do to make it happen. It’s the drama of the playoffs, right? If you want drama, the playoffs bring it every time.”
Logano also praised Wolfe’s decisive call that ultimately secured his playoff spot. “I’m proud of Paul Wolfe,” he said.
“We made some really hard calls today. Three -stop in the end there. Kind of an audible there at the end, just our falloff was a little bit too much. So making that call there at the end was ultimately what kept us there in the game.”
Race Winner and Playoff Field Updates
Shane van Gisbergen, teammate to Ross Chastain at Trackhouse Racing, dominated the Charlotte ROVAL, securing his fifth win of the season, sixth overall, and fifth straight on a road course. He left a strong mark on this playoff stage but was unable to prevent Chastain’s elimination.
Alongside Joey Logano, the drivers advancing to the Round of 8 include Ryan Blaney, Denny Hamlin, Kyle Larson, Christopher Bell, William Byron, Chase Briscoe, and Chase Elliott. This group will continue to compete for the championship in the next stage of the playoffs.
Logano Discusses NASCAR Playoff Format, Expresses Support Despite Criticism
Joey Logano shared his viewpoint on NASCAR’s elimination-style playoff format, defending it for the exciting drama it generates on track. After the race, Logano explained to reporters why he values the playoff structure as a compelling aspect of the sport.
“The playoffs create drama,” he said.
“It creates storylines. It creates awesome moments like that. I don’t understand what people don’t like about it. I really don’t get it.”
The reigning Cup Series champion highlighted how crucial every point is during the playoffs. Reflecting on Ross Chastain’s fate after spinning in the final corner while attempting to pass Denny Hamlin, Logano emphasized the importance of points earned earlier.
“If you’re one of those people who say the regular season doesn’t matter, playoff points don’t matter — one point would have been the difference there. I preach that all the time. I’m not just saying that because it works for us. I’m saying it because it’s true.”
Next Challenge Awaits at Las Vegas Motor Speedway
Logano’s focus now shifts to the South Point 400, scheduled for Sunday, October 12, at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. The 267-lap event will be broadcast live on USA Network starting at 5:30 p.m. ET, with live radio coverage available through PRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. This upcoming race will be crucial as Logano aims to continue his playoff run amid stiff competition.
Significance of Logano’s Strategy and Playoff Implications
The crew chief’s strategic decision under pressure highlights the critical role pit strategy plays in determining playoff advancement. Logano’s ability to maintain composure amid high stakes and execute team decisions reflects the tense reality of NASCAR playoffs, where every call and point matters deeply. As the competition intensifies heading into the Round of 8, Logano’s survival underscores the razor-thin margins that define championship contention in NASCAR.
