Joey Logano is set to break the Richard Petty NASCAR race start record for youngest driver to achieve 600 starts, accomplishing the feat during the Cup Series event at Dover International Speedway. On race day, Logano will have completed 600 starts at just 35 years and one month old, edging out Richard Petty’s longstanding benchmark established in 1973 when Petty was 35 years and seven months.
Since his debut in the Cup Series on September 14, 2008, Logano has experienced a career filled with significant achievements and challenging moments. As a world champion, Logano has tallied 37 career victories and earned three championship titles, setting him apart as one of NASCAR’s most accomplished drivers. Fewer than 40 NASCAR competitors have reached 600 race starts, emphasizing the exclusivity of this accomplishment and highlighting how rare such longevity is among drivers.
Breaking the Previous Youngest-to-600 Record
Richard Petty’s record, set over 50 years ago, previously stood as the gold standard for youth and endurance combined in NASCAR. Petty accomplished his 600th start at 35 years and seven months, a testament to his pace and consistency during his era. Logano, the current #22 driver for Team Penske, achieves this milestone at an even younger age, becoming the youngest driver in history to complete 600 Cup Series events.
This achievement is particularly meaningful, as Logano has become well known for setting “youngest driver” records throughout his career. He was previously the youngest driver to win a Cup Series race and to secure a pole position. Logano, now breaking yet another youth-oriented benchmark, continues to leave his own mark on the history books.
The possibility for Logano to further his records is significant. While Denny Hamlin, another prominent name in the series, recently surpassed 700 Cup starts, Logano’s age provides him ample time to pursue even more starts, and perhaps even greater records, as his career continues.
Joey Logano Reflects on 600 NASCAR Starts and His Journey
Approaching the 600-start milestone, Joey Logano discussed his emotions regarding this new chapter in his racing journey, expressing a thoughtful attitude about the experience. Reaching this moment at Dover brings personal significance, especially considering the grind and commitment required to achieve such a rare accomplishment at the sport’s highest level.
It’s an iconic weekend with being able to hit that 600th start, That’s a pretty special one as well, so it’s a busy week for sure – a short one because we’ll be traveling a lot, but it’s all good.
—Joey Logano, as reported by Jayski.
In recalling his progression over more than 16 years of competing in NASCAR, Logano highlighted the pride and satisfaction he draws from such sustained competition. He emphasized how meaningful it is to stand among the few drivers who have maintained top-tier performance over such a significant period.
When you start thinking about it, to be able to be around in a sport as an athlete competing at a top level for 16-plus years, and hitting 600 starts, it’s pretty incredible to have a career that long. It’s something that I take some pride in. I’m proud of that, to be able to hit this marker.
—Joey Logano
For Logano, the milestone is not only about numbers but encapsulates a journey defined by resilience, achievement, and the constant pursuit of excellence. The NASCAR world champion viewed the milestone as “pretty special,” reflecting on the weight of maintaining such a lengthy and successful career in motorsports.
Continuing the Pursuit of Records and Achievements
As the 2025 racing season continues, Logano stays focused on adding to his impressive list of career highlights. So far this season, he has secured one race win and has several races left in the regular Cup Series calendar, providing more opportunities to extend his record and perhaps collect additional victories.
Richard Petty amassed an astounding 1,185 Cup starts in his legendary career. While surpassing that number might not be one of Logano’s current targets, the possibility for further accomplishments remains open, given his age and continued performance at the top level.
Throughout his journey, Logano’s achievements have intersected with notable NASCAR figures and events. His progress is watched closely by fellow drivers such as Denny Hamlin, well-known organizations like Team Penske, and a growing roster of fans and analysts. Each milestone Logano reaches further cements his legacy in the sport, often bringing discussion about past champions like Richard Petty and current stars including Ross Chastain and Lewis Hamilton.
Looking ahead, Joey Logano’s new status as the youngest to reach 600 NASCAR starts places him firmly in the history books among other celebrated names and legendary events. His continued presence means there is still much more to look forward to as he chases new records and moments in NASCAR’s ever-evolving story.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Richard Petty wear sunglasses all the time?
A. Just like the hat, the sunglasses are part of his signature style. He started wearing them to create a unique image. Petty mentioned that these glasses act like his “security blanket.” With the hat and glasses on, he feels he can express himself freely.
Q. Why does Richard Petty always wear sunglasses?
A. He mentioned that he started wearing sunglasses as a signature look. Petty also explained that his sunglasses act like a security cover. With his hat and glasses, he feels free to express himself however he wants.
Q. Was Richard Petty a smoker?
A. Tobacco has been a significant part of Richard Petty’s life, much like stock car racing. As a child in North Carolina, he helped on his uncle’s tobacco farm. Petty used tobacco in various forms, such as chewing, dipping snuff, and smoking cigars, until he stopped all at once five years ago.
