In the wake of NASCAR’s decision to return to the Chase championship format for the 2026 season, Team Penske’s Joey Logano sparked strong reactions from fans with his remarks about the new system. The debate over the Team Penske NASCAR championship format intensified after Logano expressed his preference for the old elimination-style setup, prompting criticism on social media and at the track.
NASCAR Retools Playoff System, Ditching Win-and-You’re-In Rule
The announcement came last Monday at the NASCAR Productions Facility in Concord, North Carolina, revealing that the widely used “win-and-you’re-in” system will be retired in favor of a points-based qualification for the playoffs. The Chase format, previously implemented from 2004 to 2013, will now determine how drivers qualify for the championship run. Joey Logano, in voicing his perspective at North Wilkesboro Speedway, acknowledged the significant shift in approach, stating,
“This is different,” Joey Logano said during a recent media availability at North Wilkesboro Speedway. “There’s no doubt it’s very different. You have to kind of go back to the drawing board and do something else. So that’s fine. I don’t care.”
He continued to reflect on his unique appreciation for the former playoff model, noting,
“Personally, I was one of the rare people, apparently, that liked the old one just from a fan’s perspective,” Logano continued. “I enjoyed it. But if the majority doesn’t like that, I’m sure we’ll change it and we’ll go race another way. “
These remarks, especially from the reigning Cup Series champion and a key figure for Team Penske, set off a wave of passionate responses online and among the NASCAR fan base.
Fans Respond Sharply to Logano’s Take on the Format
Logano’s feelings about the playoff changes did not sit well with many fans. Some were direct in their disapproval, challenging both his candor and his legacy under the previous format. One fan said,
“I think Joey Logano should stop talking.”
Another fan’s reaction sharpened the criticism further with,
“Logano will never win another championship again.”
Among the mix, others pointed out ironies and speculated about Logano’s championship prospects given the historical performance under various formats. One observation noted,
“The ironic thing is that under this new format he would have more championships than the old one,” a fan wrote.
Some responses took a more skeptical tone regarding his previous successes, offering the following takes:
“Duh we know you liked the old format cuz only way you got your 3 championships. Now you won’t win one,” wrote another.
“Of course he liked the old format he’d have 0 championships with any other format,” a fan commented.
“Because he lucked his way into championships of course he said that,”added another.
The intensity of these responses demonstrated that the Team Penske NASCAR championship format is a flashpoint issue for many fans, who viewed Logano’s comments through the lens of competitive history and loyalty.
Details of the New Chase Structure for 2026
Under the revised format, the final ten races of the season will constitute the Cup Series playoffs. The Chase will include nine races for the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and seven for the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, increasing the emphasis on consistent points accumulation rather than single-race wins. This development marks a significant change for drivers, teams, and fans, signaling a return to a system that rewards season-long performance.
Logano Accepts The Change, Focuses on Competing
Despite the backlash, Logano remained measured and pragmatic about the shift in championship format. Addressing the topic, he explained,
“There were a lot of different ideas that were thrown out there; this one I didn’t hear about. Listen, my job is not to have an opinion about the playoff format. My job is to win the playoff format, that’s my job is to win the big trophy at the end of the day, so whatever it is, I’m good with it, I’m not gonna complain about it. I’m gonna focus on doing my job, which is to go out there and win.”
This outlook echoes the attitude seen in Team Penske circles, focusing more on performance over personal preference as the series adjusts to another major format overhaul. Logano’s next major competition will be the crown jewel Daytona 500 on February 15, 2026, broadcast on FOX with live coverage also available through MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.
Looking Ahead: What the Format Change Means for Teams and Fans
As the NASCAR community prepares for these structural changes, both drivers and supporters are recalibrating expectations. For Team Penske, the updated playoff system signifies a new era, where consistent results throughout the regular season become vital. The spark in debate following Logano’s statements reveals just how much weight the championship structure carries for champions, aspiring drivers, and the passionate fan base alike. The build-up to the 2026 season, especially iconic events like the Daytona 500, will serve as a major stage for adapting to and evaluating the Chase’s impact on NASCAR’s future and legacy.
i think joey logano should stop talking 🙂 https://t.co/o2W8BRBRhl
— sky (@skytweetsstuff) January 13, 2026
Logano will never win another championship again
— Justin Champagne (@ChampagneRacin) January 13, 2026
The ironic thing is that under this new format he would have more championships than the old one..
— Hondo (@12forlyfe) January 13, 2026
Of course he liked the old format he'd have 0 championships with any other format.
— Warren Wilhelm Sr (@WarrenWilhelmSr) January 14, 2026
Because he lucked his way into championships of course he said that
— Tyheim Brown II (@TyheimBrownII) January 13, 2026
