A Year of Frustration Revisited
Joey Logano arrives back at Richmond Raceway with a fierce determination that runs deeper than typical race-week preparation. He and Denny Hamlin still replay last year’s chaotic finale in their minds—a finish that sparked controversy and cost them dearly.
As Logano put it, watching the clip made him “mad again.” Though the result remains unchanged, the sting lingers. “We have to go get sweet redemption—win the race that we had won,” he declared.
The Unforgettable 2024 Cook Out 400
Last season at Richmond, the conclusion of the Cook Out 400 left the NASCAR world reeling. Battling for the lead in overtime, Logano found himself spun into the wall by Austin Dillon in Turn 3. Dillon then continued to take out Hamlin before crossing the finish—accelerating his path to victory amid chaos.
NASCAR officials later allowed Dillon to keep the win but stripped him of his Playoff eligibility. The drama didn’t stop there: Logano was fined $50,000 for showing his frustration in the pits by spinning his tires in front of Dillon’s team. Meanwhile, Dillon’s spotter received a suspension for encouraging the wreck on team radio.
Redemption and Resilience
Logano’s mindset now is as clear-cut as his strategy: take the win Richmond denied him. “It’s a year ago, and you’ve got to move forward at some point,” he reflects.
Currently sitting 10th in the Playoff standings, Logano—already a three-time Cup Series champion—has proven resilient this season.
Recent Struggles at Richmond
Practice hasn’t been smooth sailing this time. Logano crashed his No. 22 Ford during practice and missed qualifying, putting him at the tail end of the starting grid for Saturday’s Cook Out 400.
Still, his motivation hasn’t wavered. “Bad luck? Maybe,” he conceded. But his focus remains razor-sharp.
Community Support Off the Track
Away from the roar of engines, Logano demonstrated his generosity in Richmond’s Gilpin Court community—partnering with STEP Richmond and the Good Feet Store to host a back-to-school drive, providing essential supplies to local children.
Summary Table
Aspect
Details
Cause of Frustration
Spin induced by Austin Dillon in overtime last year, costing Logano a win at Richmond
Outcome of Controversy
Dillon kept the win but lost Playoff eligibility; Logano fined $50K; spotter suspended
Redemption Focus
Logano vows to reclaim victory at Richmond—“win the race that we had won.”
Current Playoff Status
Sits 10th; already clinched via previous wins
Recent Setback
Missed qualifying after practice crash—starting at the back
Off-Track Contribution
Organized a school-supplies drive in Richmond ahead of the race
