Former NASCAR driver Kenny Wallace has ignited discussion in the racing community after sharing a divisive opinion about Joey Logano, adding fuel to ongoing debates surrounding the Joey Logano controversy NASCAR opinions. Wallace, well-known for his candid presence on social media, weighed in with a lighthearted yet pointed comparison between Logano and former champion Matt Kenseth.
Kenny Wallace Weighs in on Unpopularity and NASCAR Champions
Kenny Wallace, who is no stranger to stirring passionate responses from fans, used his platform to spotlight the polarizing reputation of Joey Logano. Despite once enjoying popularity in his early years with Team Penske, the native of Middletown, Connecticut, became a contentious figure following a heated 2015 clash with Matt Kenseth. That incident at Kansas changed the perception of Logano for many NASCAR enthusiasts, as Kenseth’s revenge at Martinsville, which earned him a two-race suspension, left lasting animosity among supporters of both drivers.
Many fans have since pointed blame at Logano for instigating the altercation, holding him responsible for escalating tensions during that playoff run. Criticism resurfaced when Logano clinched the 2024 Cup Series title. Detractors argued that his underwhelming performance during the regular season failed to justify a playoff berth, but NASCAR’s “win and you’re in” rule secured his place in championship contention regardless of his single race victory before the playoffs.
The debate around Logano’s credentials and likability has become a mainstay among NASCAR followers. He regularly faces boos at events. Reflecting on this reaction, Logano himself said,
“I wish I knew. I mean I guess some of it is probably how I started my career. I made some mistakes in the way I handled things. I think some of that has carried over for a long time,”
Joey Logano, Cup Series driver. He also explained,
“Outside of that, I don’t know. I don’t put on a façade, like this is me, right? And I think it’s confusing to people who see me smile and laugh and then race hard,”
Joey Logano, Cup Series driver.
Comparisons to Matt Kenseth and NASCAR’s Changing Formats
The question of “unworthy champions” in NASCAR is not limited to Logano alone. Matt Kenseth, who competed with Roush Racing, faced his own share of criticism for winning the championship in 2003 by relying on season-long consistency rather than multiple victories. Kenseth’s triumph with just one win that year pushed NASCAR to overhaul its system, instituting the playoffs—a controversial move that split fans and changed the course of the sport.
Despite the perceived dullness of the championship format during Kenseth’s reign, many in the fanbase hold him in higher regard than Logano. At age 53, Kenseth’s soft-spoken approach contrasts sharply with Logano’s more vibrant and outspoken persona, influencing how both are received by the racing world.
Wallace’s Unfiltered Opinion Adds to the Controversy
Kenny Wallace’s recent remarks singled out Logano as his preferred champion over Matt Kenseth, but not because of their racing achievements; rather, Wallace highlighted Logano’s willingness to speak openly as the deciding factor. In his blunt style, Wallace declared,
“Joey Logano. Because he speaks 😂 https://t.co/66ou38X3lu”
Kenny Wallace, former Busch Series driver, adding a playful tone to a debate swirling with passion and agitation.
Responding to a fan’s question about whether Kenseth or Logano was the superior champion—especially if Logano were to secure another title with only one win—Wallace doubled down:
“Joey Logano. Because he speaks (face with tears of joy emoji)”
Kenny Wallace, former Busch Series driver.
The contrast between the two drivers is sharp: Kenseth’s reserved nature set him apart from Logano’s tendency to share his thoughts, even if it opens him to criticism and controversy. For Wallace, Logano’s ability to communicate, for better or worse, outweighs the traditional standards for measuring a champion.
Impact and Continuing Debate in NASCAR
Kenny Wallace’s comments underscore the ongoing divide among fans over what makes a champion in NASCAR. As the sport moves forward, the Joey Logano controversy NASCAR opinions remain a central theme, involving personalities like Matt Kenseth and highlighting how styles both on and off the track can shape perceptions. Whether fans support the vocal or the quiet champions, NASCAR’s narrative remains fueled by such passionate debates, and figures like Wallace ensure the discussions remain as spirited as ever.
Joey Logano.
Because he speaks 😂 https://t.co/66ou38X3lu— Kenny Wallace (@Kenny_Wallace) September 29, 2025
