Joey Logano NASCAR playoff support was front and center after he narrowly claimed a spot in the NASCAR Cup Series Round of Eight, making it clear he wants the current playoff format to stay intact. Logano, who recently clinched his advancement by a single-point margin, emphasized his endorsement of the system that has played a role in his multiple championships.
Logano Finds Value in Playoff Drama
After finishing 20th in his latest race, just enough to move on to the next playoff round starting in Las Vegas, Joey Logano expressed his outlook on NASCAR’s playoff format. His position as the lowest-ranked among the eight semifinalists doesn’t dampen his confidence; he has a history of rising from behind, winning championships under similar circumstances in the past few years.
Logano articulated his appreciation for the drama and excitement that accompany the postseason structure, noting how the playoff format generates memorable moments for both drivers and fans. He described the energy and unpredictability brought by the elimination system, which keeps the competition intense until the final laps of the season.
“The playoffs create drama, it creates storylines, it creates awesome moments like that,”
Logano said with a smile almost as wide as his home state of Connecticut. — Joey Logano, Driver
One-Point Margin Highlights Importance of Current System
Reflecting on how critical each race result is, Logano stressed that advancing by only one point demonstrates the necessity and impact of the playoff environment. Without the cut-off races and the tension of elimination, Logano suggested, the sport would lack compelling narratives, even pointing out that a focus solely on dominant winners would diminish the playoff intrigue.
“I don’t understand what people don’t like about (the playoffs),”
Logano said.
“I really don’t get it. And if you’re one of those people who say the regular season doesn’t matter or that playoffs don’t matter, humph! One point would have been the difference there [of him not advancing to the Round of Eight].”
— Joey Logano, Driver
His near miss in the standings supports his assertion that every point and race in the postseason is crucial, maintaining drama for both competitors and viewers throughout the season.
“I preach that all the time, I’m not just saying because it works for us, I’m saying it’s because it’s true. One point was the difference there, that’s real drama. If you don’t have cut-off races and things like that, what do you talk about today, how Shane [winner Shane van Gisbergen] waxed everybody’s butt? Is that what you want?”
“I just think this playoff format is just wicked.”
— Joey Logano, Driver
Playoff Pressure and Sportsmanship Under Scrutiny
Joey Logano responded to questions about controversial moments, such as the recent incident involving Denny Hamlin and Ross Chastain. He acknowledged the intense pressure drivers feel, especially when their championship hopes hinge on just a few points or positions, leading to morally challenging decisions on the track. Logano highlighted that the playoff format tests not just skill but also the integrity and determination of everyone involved.
“Desperate people will do desperate things,”
he said.
“It makes you question your morals plenty of times; it’s hard to do it. It’s kind of like, what are you willing to do?”
— Joey Logano, Driver
Looking Ahead to Las Vegas and Beyond
With the semifinals approaching in Las Vegas, Logano’s resolve and NASCAR playoff support remain strong. His track record coming from behind to win titles, despite entering stages like the semifinals ranked last among contenders, keeps critics and fans focused on every point of the season. Logano’s recent close call reinforces why each race counts, and as the action moves toward Phoenix for the season finale, the playoff system’s capacity for tension and unpredictability will be scrutinized. The ongoing debate about the merits of the current format ensures the spotlight stays on both the chase for the championship and the system that shapes it.
For those who hate the #NASCAR playoffs, Joey Logano has a message for you … pic.twitter.com/uNuuy9TPGW
— Dustin Long (@dustinlong) October 5, 2025