Three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Joey Logano has built a career being the ‘bad guy’. From entering the league with the nickname ‘Sliced Bread’ to his tussle with Matt Kenseth in 2015, Logano has been the ‘villain’ since his days as Brad Keselowski’s Penske teammate. The 34-year-old driver has carved out his place in NASCAR history with a reputation for aggressive racing and clutch performances. His talent, mixed with his relentless pursuit of victory, has earned him multiple accolades. However, his latest title in 2024 has sparked heated debate.

Logano dramatically clinched the championship, edging out his Team Penske teammate Ryan Blaney by just 0.330 seconds, but controversy followed. His average finishing position of 17.1 for the season was the lowest ever recorded for a Cup Series champion. Many questioned the fairness of the playoff format that prioritizes late-season dominance over season-long consistency.

However, ahead of the 2025 season, Team Penske’s driver has given a blunt response to shut his critics. He delivered a response that echoed one of hockey’s most iconic moments, channeling NHL legend Patrick Roy.

Joey Logano has hearing problems

Joey Logano is no stranger to criticism, but he knows how to fire back. Ahead of the season in an interview with Fox Sports Bob Pockrass, he shut his critics. When Logano was asked about the backlash regarding his title, his response was as sharp as his driving on the track. NASCAR insider Jeff Gluck revealed the intriguing conversation between Logano and Pockrass.

“NHL legend Patrick Roy once said he couldn’t hear a comment from Jeremy Roenick because “I’ve got my two Stanley Cup rings plugging my ears.” Asked by Bob Pockrass about people criticizing his recent NASCAR championship, Joey Logano just said: “I can’t hear it because my trophies they kind of echo around me. It’s kind of crazy”.” Gluck posted on social media platform X.

This moment was yet another testament to Logano’s resilience. He has never shied away from controversy and has often let his performances do the talking. His third Cup Series title added another layer to his already impressive resume, proving that he can rise to the occasion when it matters most.

Logano’s ability to close out seasons in style has been his trademark. He won his first championship in 2018 by winning one regular season race at Talladega, followed by two playoff wins at Martinsville and Homestead to take the title. He repeated the feat in 2022, albeit with a more even split of two regular season wins and two playoff wins. While his latest triumph drew criticism, it also highlighted his ability to peak at the right time. NASCAR’s current playoff format rewards drivers who perform under pressure, and Logano has mastered that art.

With the 2025 season approaching, the debate surrounding his latest championship will probably continue. However, Logano’s focus is already shifting to the next challenge. His upcoming appearance in the Clash at Bowman Gray is set to be another defining moment in his career.

All eyes on The Clash at Bowman Gray

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Joey Logano isn’t wasting any time in proving his dominance once again. As the reigning three-time Cup Series champion, he is set to compete in the NASCAR Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium on February 2, 2025. This season-opening exhibition race will mark his 17th appearance in the event.

Logano first participated in the Clash back in 2009 and has since collected two victories. His most recent triumph came in 2022, and he has consistently been a top contender. Out of his 16 previous starts, he has secured nine top-five finishes, with 67 laps led and an impressive average finishing position of 7.8, demonstrating his ability to perform in this unique format.

Notably, this year’s clash is very important and different for NASCAR. Unlike previous editions this year, NASCAR decided to revisit its infamous Bowman Gray Stadium. It will host a NASCAR race after 54 years of hiatus. A win here will surely place Logano in the annals of NASCAR. Speaking about the upcoming event, Logano expressed excitement.

“I think it always draws up a little bit more excitement and people talk about it more when it’s something new. ‘What are we gonna see at Bowman Gray? I don’t know.’ When we went to L.A. the first time, remember all the talk of what that race was gonna be like and no one had a clue? It draws up a lot of hype, which is good, and you’re also bringing it to the race fan… Whether that’s in Winston-Salem or L.A. or name a city, I think moving it around is cool because it gives people opportunity,” Logano told media. The Team Penske driver did win the first Clash race at the L.A. Coliseum in 2022 and will hope to inaugurate Bowman Gray’s return in a similar fashion.

Notably, Logano has thrived in high-pressure situations, and the 2025 Clash presents yet another chance to showcase his ability. While his championship win remains a topic of debate, one thing is clear: Logano is focused on the future, ready to silence critics with more victories. As NASCAR’s new season begins, all eyes will be on him to see if he can continue his winning ways.