Who Will Dominate the Next NASCAR Race Without Joey Logano?

Joey Logano’s absence from the upcoming NASCAR Cup Series race has left fans wondering:  Who will step up and take control of the track? As one of the sport’s most dominant drivers, Logano’s presence has been a key factor in past races, often setting the tone for competition.

With his unexpected withdrawal, the landscape of the next race shifts dramatically. This creates an opportunity for other top-tier drivers to seize the moment and potentially claim victory. But who has the best shot at taking the checkered flag?

In this deep dive, we’ll explore Logano’s absence, the drivers most likely to take advantage, and key factors that will influence the race’s outcome.

Joey Logano: Why His Absence Matters

Joey Logano is a two-time NASCAR Cup Series Champion (2018, 2022) and has consistently been one of the most competitive drivers on the track. His aggressive driving style, combined with Team Penske’s strategic excellence, has made him a constant threat in any race.

A Legacy of Success

Logano’s career stats speak for themselves:

• 30+ career Cup Series wins
• Over 250 top–10 finishes
• 2024 Daytona 500 runner-up

His absence is significant because he is a driver who can consistently race at the front, defend well, and close out wins. Without him in the mix, other competitors now have a greater chance to dominate.

Top Contenders Who Could Win the Race

With Logano sidelined, several drivers have the potential to control the race and take home the trophy. Here are the most likely contenders:

1. Christopher Bell: The Rising Star

Christopher Bell is arguably the hottest driver in NASCAR right now. He has won three consecutive races this season, including dominant performances at:

• Atlanta Motor Speedway
• Circuit of the Americas
• Phoenix Raceway

This makes him the first driver since Kyle Larson in 2021 to achieve three wins in a row. If his current form continues, he could be the biggest beneficiary of Logano’s absence.

Why Bell Could Win

• Momentum is on his side (winning streak).
• Strong performance on various track types.
• Aggressive yet calculated driving style.

If Bell can carry his winning form into the next race, he could cement himself as the new driver to beat in Logano’s absence.

2. Kyle Larson: The Around Threat

Kyle Larson has proven time and time again that he is one of the best natural talents in NASCAR. His ability to adapt to different tracks, drive aggressively, and make bold moves gives him an edge over most competitors.

Why Larson Could Win

• Former NASCAR Cup Series Champion (2021).
• Expert in high-speed, high-intensity racing.
• Has a history of taking advantage of weak competition.

If Larson finds himself near the front late in the race, he won’t hesitate to go for the win. With Logano out, he could be the next dominant force.

3. Ryan Blaney: The Consistent Performer

Ryan Blaney has been one of the most consistent drivers in recent years, securing multiple top-5 finishes. While he hasn’t always been a top-tier closer, his ability to stay near the front makes him a major threat.

Why Blaney Could Win

• Top-5 finishes in multiple races this season.
• Team Penske backing (same team as Logano).
• Excellent at navigating unpredictable races.

Blaney’s biggest challenge is closing out races. If he can stay near the front in the final laps, he has a real shot at winning.

4. Chase Elliott—Fan Favorite and Former Champ

Chase Elliott, the 2020 NASCAR Cup Series Champion, is one of the sport’s biggest stars. His versatility allows him to perform well on multiple track types, making him a dangerous competitor in any race.

Why Elliott Could Win

• Strong performance on both short and long tracks.
• One of the most experienced drivers in the field.
• Recent victory at The Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium.

Elliott is notoriously calm under pressure. With Logano out of the mix, his ability to strategize and execute could put him in Victory Lane.

5. Denny Hamlin—The Veteran Contender

Denny Hamlin has been one of NASCAR’s best drivers for over a decade. With multiple Daytona 500 wins and a reputation for being a closer, he is always a threat to take home a victory.

Why Hamlin Could Win

• Elite experience in high-pressure situations.
• Knows how to conserve tires and fuel for the finish.
• One of the best superspeedway racers in the field.

If the race comes down to strategy and patience, Hamlin is one of the best drivers to bet on.

Key Factors That Will Decide the Race

While talent and skill matter, several external factors will influence the outcome of the race:

1. Track Conditions

• Different tracks favor different styles.
• High-speed tracks (like Daytona) benefit from aggressive drafting.
• Short tracks (like Bristol) favor defensive driving.

2. Pit Crew Performance

• The best teams execute quick, flawless pit stops.
• A slow pit stop can cost a driver the race.

3. Weather Conditions

• Rain, wind, and temperature affect car handling.
• Cooler weather favors aggressive driving.

4. Restarts and Cautions

• Late-race restarts often determine winners.
• Drivers who handle pressure well have a better shot at winning.

The History of Missing Top Drivers

When big-name drivers miss races, it often creates a power vacuum that allows unexpected names to rise.

Notable Examples:

• 2020: Jimmie Johnson Misses Race Due to COVID-19
  • Result: A new generation of drivers stepped up.
• 2015: Kyle Busch Injury
  • Result: Other drivers took wins early in the season.
• 2001: Dale Earnhardt’s Tragic Passing
  • Result: A new era of NASCAR began.

Could Logano’s absence spark a new trend in NASCAR dominance?

What Are Fans Saying?

NASCAR fans have taken to social media and forums to discuss who they think will win in Logano’s absence.

Common fan opinions:

• “Christopher Bell is the hottest driver right now; he’s got this.”
• “Kyle Larson is always a threat. If he gets near the front, he’ll win.”
• “Chase Elliott needs this win more than anyone.”

With so much excitement and speculation, this race is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable of the season.

Final Prediction: Who Will Dominate?

Given Logano’s absence and current driver momentum, the top candidates for victory are:

1. Christopher Bell (best form)
2. Kyle Larson (best natural talent)
3. Ryan Blaney (most consistent)

However, anything can happen in NASCAR. A surprise winner could emerge, but one thing is for certain: the absence of Joey Logano changes everything.

This upcoming race is a golden opportunity for another driver to step up and take control of the 2025 NASCAR season!