Reigning NASCAR Cup Series champion Joey Logano isn’t shying away from controversy. As Phoenix Raceway prepares to debut Goodyear’s 2025 option tires, the Team Penske star dismissed criticism, labeling the softer compound a “gimmick.”
Joey Logano Defends NASCAR’s Softer Option Tire Strategy
Fresh off his championship win at Phoenix last November, Logano doubled down on innovation — even if it risks overthrowing his own advantage.
“I kind of like the option thing,” Logano told reporter Bob Pockrass. “It’s better for the sport.”
His endorsement comes amid mixed reactions from fans and rivals, setting the stage for a high-stakes strategy battle at Phoenix Raceway. Logano’s championship record at Phoenix — three wins, including the 2022 and 2024 titles — gives his opinion weight.
The 2025 tire package, featuring a grippier but faster-wearing option, debuted last year at Richmond and North Wilkesboro. Critics argue it’s a band-aid fix for short-track racing, but Logano sees it differently.
“Everyone has the same amount of tires. How do you want to call the race?” he said.
The softer compound forces teams to balance speed and durability, a challenge Logano welcomes.
“Some people see it as possibly gimmicky, but I don’t see it that way at all. … I do think it’s better for the sport, if this tire does work and they are able to implement it in more places.”
Joey Logano won the championship race at Phoenix, so was he hoping not to worry about a different tire? Nah, he's a fan of the softer option tire. @NASCARONFOX pic.twitter.com/JXW7xUBJke
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) March 9, 2025
The two-time champion’s stance contrasts with skeptics who fear manufactured drama. Trackhouse Racing’s Daniel Suárez sees the upside.
“It creates more opportunities and more tools to do different things,” Suárez said.
For Logano, adaptation is key. “You’ve got to keep moving forward,” he said, shrugging off nostalgia for past wins. “This will measure if we worked hard enough over the offseason.”
Phoenix Raceway Becomes NASCAR’s Tire Strategy Laboratory
Sunday’s Shriners Children’s 500 marks the option tire’s first appearance at Phoenix.
Teams will receive six primary sets and two option sets, creating a high-risk, high-reward strategy. The softer rubber’s extra grip could disrupt Phoenix’s recent pack-racing trends, favoring teams that master tire management.
Logano highlighted the countless ways to adjust.
“There’s a million different variables out there that are always floating around.”
Starting on the front row, Logano faces added pressure. His 2025 season started with a Daytona 500 crash and a middling finish at COTA. Yet, Phoenix’s tire gamble could be his reset.
“What do teams do over the offseason to find gains?” Logano mused.
“This will be a good measure.”
Not everyone shares Logano’s optimism, though. Some drivers privately question whether the tire will wear consistently, but Logano remains confident.
“Keep doing this,” he urged NASCAR. “It’s cool.”
As Phoenix’s pack-racing legacy collides with innovation, one truth remains. In Logano’s world, progress tops comfort. Whether these new tires deliver or disappoint, the champion’s bet is clear — adapt or fall behind.
