Joey Logano’s cautious experience during Mexico NASCAR race proved strategic last weekend, as the Team Penske pilot avoided illness while several fellow drivers became unwell at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez. Logano, a three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, opted for a restricted routine between the racetrack and his hotel, steering clear of tourist activities in Mexico City.
Logano Limits His Activities While Racing in Mexico City
Starting ninth in Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race, Joey Logano’s day included some intense moments on track, notably when Austin Dillon forced him into the grass, although Logano managed retaliation later in the event. Despite these incidents, he completed the race in 21st place, avoiding any major setbacks in an eventful outing.
Reflecting on his time south of the border during his weekly Behind the Wheel segment on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, Logano shared with fans the reasons behind his guarded approach.
“I’m like the nervous traveler if I’m being honest,”
Logano said, expressing anxiety about losing his passport, falling ill, or encountering dangerous scenarios. Instead of exploring the Mexican capital city, Logano stuck to a strict regimen, moving solely between his hotel and the racetrack.
According to Logano, he trusted only the environments approved by NASCAR. He explained his resolve not to venture out, believing the safest locations were the hotel and race venue—places where NASCAR officials had ensured security and accommodations for the competing drivers and teams.
Hotel Dining and a Fortunate Outcome
Logano emphasized that his decision to stay within the hotel paid off. He sampled meals from three on-site restaurants and, notably, avoided the illness that sidelined or hampered many of his colleagues on race day.
“They had like three different restaurants in there. Tried them all. All of them were great. And I didn’t get sick. All I know is there was like five drivers on race day that were not feeling so hot. And I was like, I did the right thing. I’m still feeling okay. So it, it all worked out.”
—Joey Logano, Driver
After returning to the United States, Logano expressed relief and mentioned looking forward to the comforts of home, leaving behind the extra worries he faced while in Mexico. He now prepares for the upcoming event at Pocono, also known as the Tricky Triangle, where race coverage is set to begin at 2 p.m. ET.
Logano Moves Forward to Next Challenges
Joey Logano’s strategy of limiting his exposure in Mexico allowed him to stay healthy, particularly when several drivers did not fare as well in terms of wellbeing at the international venue. The outcome highlights the importance of personal routines and decisions when racing abroad and may influence how drivers and teams approach future NASCAR events outside the US.
With Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez and Mexico City now behind him, Logano and his No. 22 Team Penske squad turn their attention to Pocono, aiming to turn caution into on-track success for the next chapter in this NASCAR Cup Series season.
