In an unexpected turn of events, Joey Logano, the Team Penske driver, seems to have taken over the role of NASCAR’s leading villain, a title previously held by Denny Hamlin of Joe Gibbs Racing. This shift in fans’ sentiments has been largely driven by Logano’s controversial win at last year’s Cup Series championship in Phoenix, a victory many believe was unmerited.
Hamlin, known for his conflicts with the sport’s fan-favorites Kyle Larson and Chase Elliott, both of Hendrick Motorsports, had previously held the title of NASCAR’s most detested driver. Hamlin’s history of run-ins with these popular drivers, including a notorious incident where he crashed Elliott out of a 2017 Martinsville race, has cemented his reputation as the sport’s ‘black hat’.
However, the tide appears to be turning. Logano, who secured his third Cup Series championship in Phoenix amidst much criticism, has been drawing the ire of NASCAR enthusiasts. Despite only winning one regular season race, Logano won three out of the last ten playoff races, propelling him to his championship win. This perceived unfairness has incited the wrath of the fans, with many voicing their disapproval during Logano’s return to Phoenix.
Logano, who burst onto the NASCAR scene with his first Cup Series win at just 19, is no stranger to controversy. He has had public feuds with veterans Matt Kenseth and Kevin Harvick, and his 2017 fistfight with Kyle Busch further antagonized the fans. His contentious relationships with Elliott and Larson, including a crash with Larson during the 2018 All-Star Race, have only added fuel to the fire.
The popularity of Larson and Elliott, the latter being a seven-time most popular driver winner, is undeniable. Yet, Logano’s confrontations with them have only furthered his villainous image. At the recent Shriner’s Children 500 race, both Logano and Hamlin were met with a chorus of boos, while Larson and Elliott were cheered on.
Both Logano and Hamlin faced disappointments at Phoenix. Logano suffered a pass-through penalty for a restart violation, while Hamlin failed to outperform his own teammate, Christopher Bell, who went on to win his third consecutive race. Following the race, fans did not hesitate to voice their opinions, with some criticizing Logano’s 2024 championship win, and others questioning the media’s focus on Logano.
However, not all fans were in agreement. Some expressed their surprise at the popularity of Elliott and Larson, branding them as ‘boring’. Others argued that the polarizing actions and views of Hamlin and Logano added interest to the sport.
Despite the differing opinions, one thing is clear – Logano has unseated Hamlin as NASCAR’s leading villain, leaving fans and spectators eager to see how this narrative will unfold in future races.
