The Joey Logano and Denny Hamlin feud took center stage during the Martinsville Speedway race almost six years ago, sending shockwaves through the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs. Tensions erupted after a late-race incident when Logano approached Hamlin post-race to discuss an on-track confrontation, but their exchange quickly spiraled into physical conflict, highlighting the mounting pressure facing drivers deep in the postseason.
The On-Track Incident and Heated Pit Road Exchange
In late October 2019, during the Round of 8, Hamlin’s Joe Gibbs Racing No. 11 Toyota tangled with Logano, resulting in a tire rub and spin for Logano. The two drivers met on pit road after the race, appearing calm for less than half a minute before Logano shoved Hamlin on the shoulder and walked away. Hamlin reacted, surging back at Logano, prompting crew members from both teams to intervene. Amid the scramble, the Team Penske tire technician grabbed Hamlin and pulled him to the ground, leading to a one-race suspension for the crew member.
This fiery confrontation represented just one in a continuing series of clashes between Logano and Hamlin, who were no strangers to short track controversy that season. The competition and tempers between them only intensified as the playoffs progressed.
“I was frustrated about the situation, obviously. I just really wanted to go over there to talk to him and get his side of the story on what happened, and he just said ‘I ran you up in the wall’ basically. It wasn’t as apologetic as I was looking for, and that probably escalated the situation too much,” Joey Logano said (via NASCAR.com). —Joey Logano, NASCAR Driver
“I shouldn’t have shoved him. For all the kids watching, that wasn’t the best thing to do. But I was frustrated, tempers were high and it’s the playoffs, so that’s what happens,” he added. —Joey Logano, NASCAR Driver
Feud Intensifies at Dover: Hamlin’s Frustration with Logano’s Racing Approach
Earlier in the same playoff season at Dover, another chapter of the feud unfolded during the Round of 12. Joey Logano experienced rear axle issues, forcing him to the garage and leaving him 24 laps behind before he was even able to join the race action. Despite the setback, Logano returned and raced hard, competing with cars much further up the order. Denny Hamlin, having led most laps from pole, expressed frustration after his race was affected by Logano’s aggressive moves as a lapped car.
“I get it. Everyone races hard. If you’re one lap down I get it. Even two, just not 24. It frustrates me because it’s just a lack of philosophy. All he did was piss some people off and what did he really gain? He didn’t gain anything. But he just pissed off some guys that he’s racing with now,” Hamlin said (via NASCAR.com). —Denny Hamlin, NASCAR Driver
Logano responded by defending his effort, emphasizing the high stakes and relentless pressure of the playoffs as justification for pushing on despite his deficit. The drivers’ ongoing tension fueled speculation about further clashes as the championship battle continued.
Playoff Standings and the Broader Impact of the Rivalry
By the end of the 2019 season, Denny Hamlin scored six wins and secured a spot in the Championship 4, ultimately finishing fourth in the Cup standings. Logano, despite two wins and a strong campaign, ended his season fifth in points. Their continued confrontations spotlighted the intense environment of the NASCAR playoffs and the fierce dynamics between the series’ top competitors.
The Joey Logano and Denny Hamlin feud at Martinsville and Dover showcased the high emotions and relentless competition that define NASCAR’s playoff era. As the incidents drew increased scrutiny from officials and fans, they also served as a potent reminder of the stakes on the line – and the passionate rivalry that can flare under postseason pressure. Both drivers’ actions during these moments continue to influence how competitors, teams, and the NASCAR community approach similar situations in high-pressure races ahead.
