Joey Logano’s latest win has solidified his place among NASCAR’s elite as he claimed his third NASCAR Cup Series championship, establishing himself as a leading figure of the Championship 4 era.
The 34-year-old driver joined the ranks of legends including Lee Petty, David Pearson, Cale Yarborough, Darrell Waltrip, and Tony Stewart—each holding three NASCAR titles. Only Richard Petty, Dale Earnhardt, Jimmie Johnson, and Jeff Gordon stand above him with even more titles.
The crowning moment took place at the Phoenix Raceway, where Logano clinched the championship by winning the final race and securing the coveted Bill France Cup. Logano’s drive was apparent from the beginning; he started in P2 and quickly took the lead following a caution caused by Ty Gibbs hitting the wall. Despite the pressure and the challenges presented throughout the event, including a pit crew change due to his jackman falling ill, Logano maintained his focus and drove to victory.
Ryan Blaney was also competitive, particularly in Stage 2.
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William Byron momentarily led the race but found sustaining that lead beyond his grasp. Meanwhile, Christopher Bell also stirred intense competition, with the race being tight between the leaders.
Logano’s win at Phoenix added to his strong career. Born in Middletown, Connecticut, Logano’s ascent in NASCAR began with his Sunoco Rookie of the Year award in 2009. He has since amassed 36 NASCAR Cup Series victories, securing his spot at 28th on the all-time winners list. Notably, he stands among a select few who have achieved more than 25 victories before the age of 30, a feat shared only with icons such as Richard Petty, Jeff Gordon, and Kyle Busch.
Logano’s success goes hand in hand with his team and his career-defining decision to join Team Penske in 2013 after starting his NASCAR journey with Joe Gibbs Racing. Since the switch, Logano has notched up 32 wins under Penske’s banner as of the 2024 season, maintaining a winning streak over 11 consecutive seasons. Team Penske itself, led by Roger Penske, has a storied history in motorsports, with over 500 victories and over 40 championships across various racing disciplines.
The Championship 4 format, which became a staple of the sport since its inception in 2014, has seen Logano rise as a major figure within this structure. His latest championship victory does more than just add another trophy to his cabinet—it epitomizes his command of this competitive playoff format.
At just 34, Logano has firmly etched his name alongside the greats of the sport, leaving a strong legacy that may still continue.