Joey Logano is navigating the high-stakes world of the 2025 NASCAR playoffs with an impressive blend of confidence and composure, even as pressure looms large. The three-time champion is facing the playoff bubble with an unwavering mindset, openly admitting that anxiety is a constant companion in his life, but one he has learned to channel into a competitive edge. Following a solid fifth-place finish at Gateway last week, Logano’s prospects for defending his title are looking brighter than ever.
In an exclusive discussion after his top-five performance, Logano shared his philosophy on pressure, revealing that it sharpens his skills on the racetrack. “No, I’m an anxious person in general. I’d say I’m just always thinking about stuff. You know, I’m fine with it. I’ve learned to love that,” he stated, emphasizing that the intensity of the playoffs is a challenge he embraces. However, he is quick to clarify that comfort is not part of the equation. “To say it’s comfortable, that would be a lie. I don’t think anyone in the playoffs would say it’s comfortable. I think I remember Jimmy Johnson said it’s ten weeks of hell. He’s about right,” he reflected, acknowledging the mental toughness required to compete at this level.
Logano’s recent performance is a testament to his resilience. Entering Gateway three points below the playoff cutline, he remarkably emerged 21 points above it, solidifying his position in the race. This fifth-place finish marks his second consecutive top-five result at Gateway, underscoring his prowess on this track. It’s a crucial recovery after starting the playoffs in the 20th position at Darlington, providing him with much-needed momentum as the rounds progress.
However, it’s not just the road ahead that has Logano fired up; he is also addressing the criticism surrounding NASCAR’s playoff system. Frustrated at being portrayed as a negative example, Logano voiced his irritation over claims that the playoff format rewards sporadic wins over consistent performance. “Yeah, it pisses me off. Yeah, absolutely. Absolutely, it ticks me off all the time, but I’m also like fine change it. We’ll go win it again. Like that’s got to be your attitude with it, right?” he remarked during a candid appearance on the Teardown podcast.
His critics argue that the playoff format undermines the achievements of drivers who perform consistently throughout the season, branding them as “undeserving” champions. Yet, Logano remains unshaken, reiterating his commitment to the current rules and his determination to excel. “Oh, it’s gonna be the best one. I’m looking forward to that one. That would be the best one. Just ‘cuz you like, I don’t know, like they’ll like get out and like ‘I told you so’ moments like those feel really really good. Like that’s an extra motivator,” he concluded, showcasing his competitive spirit.
As the playoffs progress, Joey Logano stands as a formidable force, ready to tackle the challenges ahead with a mix of mental fortitude and sheer determination. His journey through the NASCAR playoff system promises to be one filled with drama, intensity, and perhaps even redemption. Fans and critics alike will be watching closely as he strives to prove that, despite the criticisms, he remains one of the elite competitors in the sport.
