After the conclusion of the NASCAR All-Star Race, Joey Logano found himself at the center of controversy, as he was openly criticized for “hypocrisy” by Bubba Wallace’s spotter, Freddie Kraft, on the Door Bumper Clear podcast. The incident, which unfolded at the race at North Wilkesboro, has sparked debate among NASCAR fans about Logano’s handling of the result after Christopher Bell overtook him following a late-race caution—placing in the national spotlight.
Spotter Calls Out Logano’s Comments and Conduct
Freddie Kraft, who guides Bubba Wallace on the radio, voiced frank disappointment with Joey Logano’s post-race comments. Kraft specifically pointed to Logano’s complaints about the promoter’s caution and how he was beaten by Christopher Bell’s strategy. Kraft did not mince words regarding Logano’s reaction.
“What the f**k,” Kraft began.
“First of all, he was crying after the race about the caution that we all knew was coming. This is probably one of the most hypocritical things I’ve ever heard anybody say.”
—Freddie Kraft, Bubba Wallace’s Spotter
Kraft highlighted that Logano, often acknowledged as
“the best defensive racer in our sport,”
would likely have used the same tactics he criticized, had the situation been reversed. Kraft pointed out the irony in Logano’s frustration given his own history on track, suggesting the driver’s anger was misdirected.
“It’s just funny for me,” Kraft said.
“He gets out of the car. First of all, he’s mad about the caution… The roles were reversed. He was finally the best car and got beat by strategy or caution. But we all knew that caution was coming.”
—Freddie Kraft, Bubba Wallace’s Spotter
Logano’s Angry Response to All-Star Race Finish
According to Kraft, Logano’s behavior after the race exemplified his usual style: quick to protest when things do not go his way, particularly in situations involving hard racing and cautions. Kraft remarked that had the outcome been in Logano’s favor, similar maneuvers would have been justified by him, reinforcing the notion of hypocrisy.
At the race itself, Joey Logano led a commanding 139 out of 250 laps and seemed poised for victory at North Wilkesboro. The pivotal moment came on Lap 216, when the event’s promoter called a caution—an anticipated but controversial move. While Logano stayed on track, Christopher Bell opted for a pit stop and fresh tires.
The strategy paid off for Bell, who drew alongside Logano by Lap 241 and ultimately grabbed the lead after running him toward the outer wall. Logano expressed clear dissatisfaction with the circumstances of his defeat, blaming the caution for his downfall.
“I’m pissed off right now,” Logano said after the race.
“Just dang it, we had the fastest car. The Shell-Pennzoil Mustang was so fast. You get to … I’m trying to choose my words correctly on the caution situation. Obviously, I got bit by it, so I am the one frustrated.”
—Joey Logano, NASCAR Driver
For Bell, the outcome hinged on his decision and assertive driving during the final laps.
“He did a great job of trying to keep me behind him, and I knew that once I got that run off Turn 4, it was like alright, I’m going to have to be a little more aggressive and kind of leaned on him and got him out of position,”
Bell said.
“I knew once I got the lead, I had the tire advantage so I should be able to cruise, and it worked out that way.”
—Christopher Bell, NASCAR Driver
Aftermath and Reactions in the NASCAR Community
In the wake of the race, the debate has intensified around Logano’s post-race conduct and on-track strategy. Freddie Kraft’s candid analysis triggered a wider conversation about how drivers handle losing due to unpredictable elements like late cautions, with Logano facing particular scrutiny for his perceived double standard. Mention of other notable names—such as Bubba Wallace and Christopher Bell—helped further contextualize the controversy.
This latest episode at the All-Star Race has put a spotlight not only on Joey Logano’s competitive reputation but also on how prominent drivers respond under pressure. As opinions remain divided, focus now shifts to future races, where the roles of strategy, luck, and racer conduct will undoubtedly remain closely watched by fans and participants alike.
