Joey Logano and Kyle Busch have shared a storied and often contentious history on the NASCAR track. Although their relationship has appeared more cordial in recent times, tensions have resurfaced. Recently, Kyle Busch, the two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion from Richard Childress Racing, openly criticized Logano during a media session at Michigan International Speedway. Busch’s comments centered on Logano’s racing behavior and a controversial incident from the past.
During the media availability, Busch commented on the final-lap clash from the August 11 race at Richmond, where Austin Dillon’s aggressive driving resulted in crashes involving Logano and Denny Hamlin. Busch used this opportunity to address broader issues of racecraft and ethics in NASCAR, making pointed remarks about Logano’s history of aggressive driving.
Kyle Busch on Joey Logano when talking about the Richmond finish: “The one that had it happen to him is probably the one that has done it the most. … I guess his comments, he could be calling himself that.” pic.twitter.com/g1OAcFSJcT
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) August 17, 2024
“There’s certainly a right and a wrong way to win races,” Busch stated. “Some drivers have resorted to desperate measures to secure a win, even when they’re not in a desperate position. Ironically, the driver who’s often been on the receiving end of these tactics is the same one who’s been known to employ them himself. His recent comments could be seen as a reflection of his own behavior. I came across an old highlight of him from a K&N race at Irwindale, which I had completely forgotten about. It’s shocking to see how actions like that, which should have disqualified someone from reaching the top level of racing, didn’t seem to hinder his career. It’s a reminder that actions have consequences, and in today’s digital age, past behavior can come back to haunt you.”
Busch’s comments are particularly notable in light of a specific incident from Logano’s past. Busch referenced the 2009 NASCAR Toyota All-Star Showdown at Irwindale, which occurred just before Logano’s rookie season in the Cup Series with Joe Gibbs Racing. During this race, Logano, who was running in second place, made a dramatic move on the final lap. He dove into the low line of the final corner before forcing the leader, Peyton Sellers, into the wall. Although Logano managed to cross the finish line first, NASCAR officials swiftly penalized him for rough driving, ultimately declaring Matt Kobyluck as the race winner instead.
This incident highlights NASCAR’s willingness to impose penalties for aggressive driving, regardless of the driver’s status or reputation. Busch’s recollection of this race underlines the notion that even top drivers like Logano have faced consequences for their actions on the track, though Busch did not mention this aspect of the ruling during his critique.
Are longtime rivals @joeylogano and @kylebusch now friends? The @Team_Penske driver surprised some fans with interesting comments on his relationship with the @RCRracing driver during an appearance on @SiriusXMNASCAR. pic.twitter.com/GeWJx06dDj
— Kyle Dalton (@kdsportswriter) February 6, 2024
Despite the criticism, Logano seems to have brushed off Busch’s remarks. He revealed in an interview earlier this year on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio’s The Morning Drive show that his relationship with Busch has improved. Logano admitted that although their past interactions have been fraught, they now share a more positive rapport. He mentioned that while he may not be certain about Busch’s feelings toward him, he has extended a gesture of goodwill, offering to help Busch if he ever finds himself in need of assistance.
Logano’s attitude suggests that while the two-time Cup Series champion may be aware of Busch’s criticisms, he remains focused on maintaining a good relationship with his peers. However, the dynamics of their relationship are complex and could shift depending on future interactions and competitive pressures.
