NASCAR’s return to Bowman Gray Stadium for The Clash was a journey back in time. The 2025 edition of the exhibition race moved away from the temporary track inside the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum to a venue rich in history. Notably, the iconic event delivered on all fronts, with Chase Elliott winning the preseason opener.

The Madhouse, known for its intense racing and passionate fanbase, provided a thrilling atmosphere. It had some unwanted crashes along with some intense wheel-to-wheel battles between Denny Hamlin and Elliott for the lead. Overall, it was a show that NASCAR and fans wanted to see. While fans and drivers had plenty to talk about after the race, one of the most vocal opinions came from Joey Logano.

Considering the success of NASCAR’s return to its historic track, the reigning NASCAR Cup Series champion had a bold demand for the sport. Team Penske driver pours his heart out while speaking about his racing experience and whether he wants to come back to Bowman Gray in 2026 or not. In a candid media conversation, Logano made a demand that could reshape the future of The Clash and other exhibition races.

Joey Logano’s call for change

Three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Joey Logano eyes to defend his title in the upcoming season. He started pretty well, with a decent performance at Bowman Gray Stadium. However, his comments after the race are making headlines. After the race, Logano spoke about his on-track experience. While he acknowledged the success of the event, he believes the sport needs to keep evolving by bringing races to new venues.

Speaking with FOX Sports’ Bob Pockrass, Logano shared his perspective. “I mean, there’s a little bit to be said about that, as well. But in the same breath, I would say it’s very important for us to move things around. You know, we’ve seen the success of our sport moving to new racetracks, and I’m a big fan of going to new places and bringing the racetrack to the fans that don’t typically get to see us, because it’s so hard to, you know — for a lot of people to travel a long way to see our races,” said Logano.

Joey Logano’s argument makes sense. NASCAR has been experimenting with new venues in recent years. The Clash at the LA Memorial Coliseum was a bold move that introduced the sport to a fresh audience. The Chicago Street Race was another example of NASCAR taking a risk to expand its reach. Logano believes this strategy is working and that NASCAR should continue pushing boundaries.

Notably, NASCAR is also working in the same direction. In the upcoming 2025 season, for the first time in the sport’s history, NASCAR will hold a points race outside the USA. The sanctioning body will visit the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City. With this race, NASCAR aims to establish itself as an international brand. Logano’s suggestions also align with NASCAR’s plans.

However, the Clash at Bowman Gray was prizing for Joey Logano too. He started seventh but suffered early contact that affected the handling of his No. 22 Shell-Pennzoil Ford Mustang. Despite struggling with restarts, Logano fought his way into the top five. With 19 laps remaining, he secured fourth place and held on to the finish. Reflecting on his race, Logano admitted that early damage made things difficult. “I got damage early in the race, like lap three. That puts you an adjustment behind,” he explained.

But, what’s next for the 34-year-old? Let’s see.

Joey Logano reveals his ambitious plans

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While The Clash was just an exhibition, Joey Logano eyes the bigger picture. As he begins his 2025 season, his focus remains on defending his NASCAR Cup Series championship. The Team Penske driver aims to become the first back-to-back champion in the Next Gen Era. Notably, the last time this feat was achieved by Jimmie Johnson in 2009-2010. However, Logano knows last year’s success won’t guarantee future victories.

In a candid media conversation, he said, “The goal is to win the championship, whether you won last year or not. You’ve got to remember what you did last year will not be good enough to win this year. You’ve got to adapt quickly. We know what lane’s going to move forward, but the first time, you don’t.” Notably, Logano’s ability to adapt has been a key to his success. He has thrived on new tracks, winning at Bristol Dirt in 2021, The Clash at the LA Coliseum in 2022, and Gateway in 2022.

However, as the 2025 season approaches, Joey Logano will face the pressure of defending his title. Unlike last year, when he won the title despite not winning most of the races, fans and his team would like him to dominate the track. Meanwhile, Team Penske will also look to continue their dominance as they are 3-time championship defenders. Do you think that Joey Logano can defend his NASCAR title in 2025?