PHOENIX, AZ – Joey Logano capped off a remarkable 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season by claiming the race win and the championship at the series’ season finale at Phoenix Raceway. Logano’s victory in Sunday’s 312-lap event marked his 36th career Cup Series win. It secured his third championship title, making him one of only ten drivers in NASCAR history to achieve that feat.
The win, which was Logano’s fourth of the season and his fourth at Phoenix, came after a thrilling battle with his Team Penske teammate Ryan Blaney. The two drivers fought for the lead throughout the final stages, with Logano crossing the finish line just 0.33 seconds ahead of Blaney. The result solidified Logano’s place among the sport’s elite, joining the ranks of NASCAR legends such as Tony Stewart, Cale Yarborough, and Darrell Waltrip, who have also claimed three or more championships.
“We just kept fighting all day. The car wasn’t perfect, but we stayed in the fight, and that’s what it’s all about,” Logano said after the race. “To win here, to win the championship, it’s really special. It’s a testament to the whole team—everyone at Penske, everyone who’s been part of this journey. I couldn’t be prouder.”
The victory marked a significant milestone for Ford, as Logano’s win gave the manufacturer its 740th all-time Cup Series victory and its 12th of the 2024 season. The win also extended Ford’s dominance at Phoenix Raceway, as it was the Blue Oval’s 20th Cup Series victory at the 1-mile oval. Logano’s win came just a week after Blaney’s triumph at Martinsville, solidifying Ford’s continued success in NASCAR’s top series.
“We had a great car today, and it feels good to close the season with a championship,” Logano said. “Ford has been a huge part of my career, and to bring home another title for them feels amazing.”
Logano also won Stage 1 of the race, with Ryan Blaney taking Stage 2 honors. Despite their strong efforts, Blaney could not challenge Logano for the win in the final stage. With four cautions and 33 laps under yellow, the race was marked by a series of late-race strategies, but Logano’s consistency and strong pit stops were vital to securing the title.
After the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season, the championship standings saw Logano finish first with 5,000 points, followed by Blaney in second and Kyle Larson in third.
Stewart Haas Racing Bids Farewell to an Era
The 2024 season finale at Phoenix was also bittersweet for Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR), as the race marked the team’s 576th and final NASCAR Cup Series event. Founded in 2009 by NASCAR Hall of Famer Tony Stewart and businessman Gene Haas, SHR has been a key player in the sport for the last 15 years, accumulating 106 Cup Series victories, two championships (2011 with Stewart and 2014 with Kevin Harvick), and numerous driver achievements.
“Today is about the people—everyone who has been part of Stewart-Haas over the years. We’ve had a lot of tough moments, but we always stuck together,” said SHR driver Noah Gragson, who finished 12th in the race. “We’re a family here, and that’s something I’ll always carry with me.”
Stewart Haas Racing Drivers Reflect on Final Races
Noah Gragson, who recorded his 75th career Cup Series start, earned his second top-15 finish in three starts at Phoenix, finishing 12th. Gragson was reflective of his time with SHR, especially given the team’s current challenges as it prepares for an uncertain future.
“This season has been tough, but it’s about the people who make it all happen behind the scenes,” Gragson said. “I’m grateful for everything and proud to have been part of this organization.”
Josh Berry, who drove the No. 4 car for SHR instead of the injured Kevin Harvick, finished 24th after starting 39th. Despite the challenging season, Berry expressed gratitude for his time with the team.
“I can’t thank everyone enough for all they did. We had a lot of uncertainty, but this group showed up every week and gave it everything they had,” Berry said.
The day for Chase Briscoe, who finished 29th in the race, was particularly emotional as SHR bids farewell to its era.
“It’s been an honor to race for Tony and Gene. This is a special place, and it’s tough to say goodbye,” said Briscoe, who has been with SHR since 2020. “I’ve made lifelong memories here, and I’ll never forget the opportunity they gave me.”
Ryan Preece, who finished 37th, expressed similar sentiments.
“It wasn’t the finish we wanted today, but this year has been a great experience. I’ve learned a lot and am thankful for the opportunity.”
As the 2024 NASCAR season draws close, the focus shifts to the 2025 season, which kicks off with the non-points Busch Light Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium on February 2, 2025. The season will officially begin with the 67th annual Daytona 500 on February 16, 2025, at Daytona International Speedway.
For now, Joey Logano and Team Penske are celebrating their championship, while SHR closes the chapter on a remarkable era in NASCAR history.
