Joey Logano’s recent NASCAR Cup Series championship win has sparked some unusual controversy. While Logano won his third championship for Team Penske Racing behind the wheel I see Mustang, not everyone was ready to celebrate. Instead, fans questioned the legitimacy of his victory.

Logano’s success came after a tense final lap where he overtook drivers Ryan Blaney and William Byron with a strong performance on the final restart. However, critics have found reason to downplay Logano’s achievements, with some arguing whether he deserves it compared to other champions.

Kyle Petty, a former NASCAR driver turned commentator, is taking a stand against this wave of criticism. Petty doesn’t mince words, and his impassioned defense of Logano shines a light on what he sees as a double standard among sports fans.

“Now that’s something I don’t understand, I don’t understand why, as I see further Twitter and X, whatever you call it now, why do so many people complain and say it’s not worth it,” Petty said. Drawing a parallel to the NCAA Tournament, he likened Logano’s story to that of a Cinderella team whose inauspicious triumphs are initially celebrated, only to be dismissed when they defy expectations on the biggest stage.

“It’s America, folks! They reach the Final Four in the NCAA Tournament. We take a guy that you guys or the fans perceive doesn’t belong and he wins the championship and we say, “He has.” I don’t deserve it, he doesn’t deserve it,” Petty continued.

Joey Logano is no stranger to a little rejection. Since starting his NASCAR career in 2008, Logano has cultivated a reputation for resilience. As a driver for Team Penske, he has managed to claim the NASCAR Cup Series title three times now, with previous wins in 2015 and 2018. The team, a powerhouse in various motorsports, has long been known for its strong performance, a trait that Logano used. during the most recent championship.

Adding his voice to the defense of Logano’s accomplishments is veteran NASCAR journalist Jordan Bianchi.

“We have to give Logano all the credit in the world. He and crew chief Paul Wolfe know how to rise to the occasion.” Bianchi said. As he sees it, Logano’s ability to navigate these difficult situations speaks to his ability rather than a simple twist of luck.

“I’ll say it until I’m blue, this is a system that asks teams to do it hard – it puts them in difficult situations and you have to fight sometimes to get out of it. Even when it’s not you. best, you have to find a way.

Unlike traditional points systems, NASCAR’s playoff format requires drivers to perform when it matters most, creating a competitive field where being the best might not mean having the highest season stats, but to perform at the right time.

Will this episode lead to calls for reform or strengthen the legitimacy of the current format?