This week, anticipation grows ahead of the Firekeepers Casino 400 at Michigan International Speedway, as Kevin Harvick predicts NASCAR Cup Series Michigan winner on his “Happy Hour” panel alongside Kaitlyn Vincie and Mamba Smith. With the Cracker Barrel 400 at Nashville Superspeedway now behind, the focus is squarely on which driver could secure victory in Michigan and shake up the Cup Series season.
Experts Share Picks for the Michigan Race
During their discussion, former Cup Series champion Kevin Harvick named Joey Logano as his favorite to win the upcoming Michigan event. Logano, who seeks to channel the success he’s enjoyed at this track before, impressed Harvick with his recent results.
“I don’t think you’re going to beat the Fords this weekend. I think you’re going to have to have a Ford. So, I just — I like his experience.”
—Kevin Harvick, Former Cup Series Champion
Joey Logano, coming off a top-five finish in Nashville, last claimed victory at Michigan in 2019. While last year saw him finish a disappointing 33rd, Logano’s capability and experience keep him as a top contender, especially with the strong history Ford cars have built at this speedway.
Kaitlyn Vincie, meanwhile, chose William Byron from Hendrick Motorsports, highlighting his consistency at the track even though he has yet to claim a win in Michigan.
“He had a decent showing here last race.”
—Kaitlyn Vincie, NASCAR Reporter
Byron’s performance has regularly put him near the front at Michigan; he was the runner-up not only last year but also in 2021. Despite never winning at this venue, his repeated podium finishes suggest he could be a factor in the final laps on Sunday.
Mamba Smith Selects an Underdog to Watch
Mamba Smith, often known for his unconventional predictions, took a different route and threw his support behind Ryan Preece representing RFK Racing, noting his potential for a breakout win. Smith also considered Carson Hocevar, who has local ties, before finalizing his choice.
“I really want to go with Carson, because it’s a home track for him, but I’m going to go RFK, I’m going with Ryan Preece,”
—Mamba Smith, NASCAR Analyst
“They seem to have some real like, big smoke speed at these mile-and-a-halves. They’ve been kind of knocking on the door for some better finishes than they’ve gotten. So, I’m going to go with Preece.”
—Mamba Smith, NASCAR Analyst
Preece’s tenure with RFK Racing has drawn attention, and although he hasn’t yet scored a Cup Series win, the team’s recent competitive speed could present an opportunity for a breakthrough this weekend in Michigan.
The Unpredictable Track and Past Champions
Michigan International Speedway’s reputation for unpredictability keeps fans and analysts alike guessing. Last season, Tyler Reddick took home the trophy at this demanding track. However, the “Happy Hour” panel does not foresee Reddick repeating his win this year, highlighting the volatile nature of Cup Series racing and the depth of talent in the current field.
As the Firekeepers Casino 400 approaches, the favorites named by Harvick, Vincie, and Smith—Joey Logano, William Byron, and Ryan Preece—will all be contenders to watch. The outcome could impact not just the Michigan event, but the ongoing championship narrative in the Cup Series.
With expert opinions divided and drivers motivated to make gains in the standings, fans at Michigan International Speedway are set for an intense, story-rich weekend as the season continues to build momentum.
