The NASCAR Cup Series race in Phoenix delivered all the drama fans could ask for, but no one expected Joey Logano to walk away with a title that Denny Hamlin had worked so hard—albeit unintentionally—to build over the years.
In a stunning turn of events, Logano has now assumed the role of NASCAR’s most divisive driver, leaving fans in an uproar and changing the dynamic of the sport’s passionate fanbase.
The Rise of NASCAR’s Newest Villain
For years, Denny Hamlin has carried the mantle of NASCAR’s most polarizing driver. Whether it was feuds with Ross Chastain, battles with Chase Elliott, or his brutally honest comments, Hamlin embraced the role of the sport’s antagonist. But Phoenix may have signaled a shift in the balance of fan perception.
Joey Logano, already no stranger to controversy, has officially stolen the spotlight—and the ire—of fans across the country. Logano’s aggressive driving style, willingness to use the bumper, and unapologetic attitude have long made him a figure of debate. But after his performance in Phoenix, it’s clear that he’s now NASCAR’s public enemy number one.
What Happened in Phoenix?
The race at Phoenix Raceway was an intense battle, with late-race restarts bringing out the best—and worst—in NASCAR’s top drivers. As the laps wound down, Logano found himself in a familiar position: battling for the lead with no intention of giving an inch.
In a move that had fans throwing their hats (or beer cans), Logano made a bold and aggressive move, forcing his way past a competitor in a manner that many felt was over the line. The result? A chorus of boos from the grandstands and a new wave of criticism from fans who have long accused Logano of playing too rough.
Meanwhile, Hamlin—who has spent years in the crosshairs of the NASCAR faithful—found himself in an unfamiliar position: not being the most disliked driver on the track. Some fans even found themselves defending Hamlin, a bizarre twist for those who had spent years booing him.
The Fan Reaction: A Sudden Shift in Allegiances
Social media erupted after the race, with NASCAR Twitter (or X, as it’s now known) turning into a battlefield of opinions. Fans who had previously despised Hamlin were suddenly calling him “not that bad” in comparison to Logano’s latest antics. Some even joked that they “miss the days when Hamlin was the one getting booed.”
Logano supporters, on the other hand, doubled down, pointing out that aggressive driving is what makes NASCAR exciting. “If you don’t like it, go watch golf,” one fan posted.
Logano’s Response: No Regrets
After the race, Logano was characteristically unapologetic. “I did what I had to do to win,” he said. “If people don’t like it, that’s their problem.”
That attitude is precisely what has made Logano such a controversial figure in the sport. He isn’t afraid to ruffle feathers, and he certainly doesn’t care if he’s cheered or booed—just as long as he’s holding the checkered flag at the end of the day.
What’s Next?
With Logano now firmly in the villain role and Hamlin enjoying an unexpected reprieve, NASCAR’s fanbase has undergone a personality shift. Will Logano embrace the boos and continue down this path, or will another driver emerge to take the heat?
One thing is for sure: NASCAR’s never short on drama, and Phoenix may have just been the beginning of a new era in driver rivalries.
