Joey Logano slams NASCAR nemesis Ross Chastain: “Is He this sport’s biggest jackass?”

NASCAR has always been a high-intensity sport where tempers flare as often as tires skid across the asphalt. Rivalries define the sport, and one of the most talked-about conflicts in recent memory involves reigning NASCAR Cup Series champion Joey Logano and Trackhouse Racing’s Ross Chastain. After a dramatic race at Martinsville Speedway, Logano didn’t hold back in criticizing Chastain’s aggressive driving style, stating bluntly:

“He just races like a jackass every week, and I keep paying the price.”

Logano’s frustration is the latest chapter in a growing feud that has sparked heated debates among fans and analysts. But what exactly happened at Martinsville, and why is Chastain’s driving such a hot-button issue in NASCAR? Let’s break it all down.

Martinsville Speedway Incident: The Boiling Point

The Cook Out 400 at Martinsville Speedway was a crucial race in the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season, with drivers battling for key positions in the standings. Logano, driving the No. 22 Ford Mustang for Team Penske, was in strong form, winning the first stage of the race. However, as the laps wound down, tensions between him and Ross Chastain escalated in dramatic fashion.

On a late-race restart, Chastain aggressively cut down in front of Logano, making a bold move to secure the bottom lane. The maneuver forced Logano into a tight spot, and he responded by nudging Chastain’s rear bumper—a typical way drivers express their displeasure on the track.

But things didn’t stop there.

Moments later, another restart saw Chastain attempting a similar maneuver, this time against Chase Briscoe. Briscoe’s response inadvertently led to contact with Logano, causing Logano’s No. 22 car to spin out. The incident brought out the final caution of the race, effectively ending Logano’s chances of contending for a top-five finish.

Despite the setback, Logano fought his way back and salvaged an eighth-place finish—his first top-10 result of the season. But when the race was over, he had plenty to say about Chastain’s driving.

Logano’s Frustration Boils Over

After the checkered flag, Logano didn’t mince words.

“He just races like a jackass every week, and I keep paying the price. I’m sick of paying the price,” Logano vented post-race.

When asked if he planned to confront Chastain directly, Logano simply responded:

“Not at the moment. Nothing good.”

Logano’s frustration is understandable. Throughout his career, he’s been both praised and criticized for his aggressive style. But in recent years, Chastain has gained a reputation for his no-holds-barred racing approach, which some say crosses the line between competitiveness and recklessness.

Ross Chastain: NASCAR’s Most Aggressive Driver?

Ross Chastain’s rise to prominence has been marked by fearless driving, bold overtakes, and a willingness to do whatever it takes to win. Some see him as a throwback to NASCAR’s rough-and-tumble past, while others—especially his competitors—view him as a driver who disregards racing etiquette.

This isn’t the first time Chastain has been at the center of controversy:

• 2022 Darlington Raceway – A late-race incident with Denny Hamlin left Hamlin furious, leading to a public callout.

• 2023 Gateway – Kyle Larson accused Chastain of “lack of respect” after a questionable move caused a wreck.

• 2024 Circuit of the Americas – William Byron and Chastain exchanged words following an aggressive battle that led to Byron’s race-ending crash.

Chastain has embraced the villain role to some extent, even leaning into the “Watermelon Man” persona—a nod to his family’s farming background. But as the incidents pile up, so does the frustration from his fellow drivers.

NASCAR Fans React: Divided Opinions

Whenever there’s an on-track controversy, NASCAR fans are quick to take sides.

Some believe Logano is justified in his criticism, arguing that Chastain’s aggressive moves put other drivers at risk and disrupt the integrity of the sport. They see Chastain as a reckless driver who causes unnecessary wrecks, forcing others to suffer the consequences.

On the other hand, Chastain has plenty of supporters who argue that his fearless racing style is exactly what NASCAR needs. They view him as an old-school competitor who refuses to back down, even when it means ruffling feathers.

Social media exploded with debates after Logano’s comments. A sampling of fan reactions:

• @RacingFan92: “Joey Logano has a point. Chastain’s antics have cost too many drivers good finishes. NASCAR needs to step in.”

• @TrackhouseForever: “Ross races hard. That’s what makes NASCAR exciting. People just hate him because he’s not afraid to push limits.”

• @NASCARAddict: “Logano complaining about aggressive driving? That’s rich coming from him. He’s done the same thing for years.”

The Logano-Chastain drama is just the latest example of how NASCAR rivalries ignite passionate debates among fans.

The Bigger Picture: Aggression in NASCAR

NASCAR has always had a delicate balance between aggressive driving and fair competition. While rubbing fenders and bumping opponents is part of the sport’s DNA, there’s a fine line between hard racing and reckless behavior.

Some of the sport’s greatest rivalries—Dale Earnhardt vs. Jeff Gordon, Kyle Busch vs. Carl Edwards, and even Logano himself vs. Denny Hamlin—were fueled by aggressive racing. But when does it go too far?

Chastain’s style has drawn criticism from multiple drivers, but NASCAR has yet to intervene in any significant way. Instead, the sport has largely left it up to drivers to police themselves, which often leads to on-track payback.

Could Logano retaliate in a future race? It’s possible. NASCAR history is filled with examples of drivers settling scores when the time is right.

What’s Next for Logano and Chastain?

As the NASCAR season continues, all eyes will be on the next race featuring both Logano and Chastain. Will Logano seek revenge? Will Chastain alter his approach? Or will tensions escalate further?

Both drivers remain in playoff contention, which means every point and position matters. If their paths cross again in a high-stakes situation—especially in the postseason—it could set the stage for an unforgettable battle.

Additionally, NASCAR officials may decide to step in if tensions rise too high. While NASCAR historically allows drivers to settle their own disputes, a major incident could force officials to intervene.

Conclusion: NASCAR’s Most Entertaining Rivalry?

Whether you love Ross Chastain’s aggressive style or side with Joey Logano’s frustration, there’s no denying that their feud has added a layer of excitement to the NASCAR season. Rivalries like this are what keep fans engaged, fueling storylines that make each race must-watch television.

For Logano, the goal is clear: contend for a championship while avoiding unnecessary wrecks. For Chastain, it’s about proving that his aggressive style isn’t reckless—it’s just hard racing.

Only time will tell how this feud unfolds, but one thing is certain: when Logano and Chastain line up next to each other on the starting grid, sparks are bound to fly.

What do you think? Is Ross Chastain’s driving style too aggressive, or is Joey Logano overreacting? Let us know in the comments of our post!