Richard Petty, a seven-time NASCAR champion, holds the record for 200 race wins and is a legend on the track. Recently, Petty shared his thoughts on Joey Logano, a two-time Cup Series champion and Team Penske’s top driver, reflecting on Logano’s remarkable performance this season. Petty praised Logano’s consistency, saying, “He may not always be the fastest, but he’s always in the Top 8 or Top 10, and that’s what puts him in the Championship 4.”
On Sunday, Logano secured his third win of the 2024 Cup Series with a masterful fuel strategy, stretching his tank to complete 74 laps, a feat of both endurance and skill. This victory, along with previous wins in Nashville and Atlanta, solidified his spot in the Championship 4. While Kyle Larson leads the season with six wins, Logano’s ability to bounce back after his disqualification at Charlotte proves his resilience, and Petty acknowledges his deserved place among the top contenders.
Although Logano’s No. 22 Ford didn’t dominate in speed, it consistently ranked among the top five cars. This level of performance, combined with his strategic prowess, has made Logano the only driver to consistently appear in the top 8 over the last four years. His partnership with Team Penske, which has resulted in 67 career victories, is another testament to his driving intelligence and teamwork.
Logano’s approach to racing has been unique, with Team Penske adopting innovative strategies that have propelled him to the front. Recounting his second win of the season in Atlanta, where he skillfully capitalized on a push from teammate Ryan Blaney, Logano remarked, “It’s about maximizing the opportunity ahead of us.” His relentless focus on improvement has positioned him as a serious threat heading into Phoenix.
With three wins under his belt this year, Logano is in a prime position to compete for the championship. His crew chief, Paul Wolfe, emphasized the team’s strength, stating, “It’s not about being the fastest; it’s about being the best team.” Logano’s hunger for victory, combined with his previous championships in 2018 and 2022, fuels his drive to clinch another title this season. His strategic mastery and resilience have him poised for another strong playoff run.