Joey Logano, driver for Team Penske, has shared insights into his successful partnership with crew chief Paul Wolfe, which has helped them achieve impressive milestones, including two NASCAR Cup championships in 2022 and 2024. Their collaboration began in the 2020 season and has since resulted in 14 wins, with both now focused on securing another championship as the NASCAR playoffs commence with the Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway.
The decision to pair Logano with Wolfe was made by team owner Roger Penske, who aimed for a fresh approach after Wolfe spent nearly a decade leading the crew of Logano’s former teammate, Brad Keselowski. During their time together, Keselowski and Wolfe celebrated 29 wins and the 2012 NASCAR Cup Championship.
Logano describes his relationship with Wolfe as akin to brotherhood. Despite occasional disagreements, the duo aligns closely in their ambition to win not just races but championships. Logano attributed much of their success to Wolfe’s unwavering drive. “Paul has like a never enough attitude,” Logano remarked during the recent NASCAR Cup playoff Media Day. He emphasized Wolfe’s high standards, noting, “His expectations are wicked high of everything we do.”
Wolfe’s disciplined lifestyle serves as an inspiration to Logano. The driver pointed out that Wolfe’s meticulous nature extends beyond the racetrack, encompassing all aspects of his life. “The guy, he’s great. He works out. He’s disciplined. It’s ridiculous,” Logano added.
Their journey began when Logano transitioned from Joe Gibbs Racing after the 2012 season, where he was paired with crew chief Todd Gordon. Together, they achieved 21 wins and the 2018 Cup Championship. The reshuffle in 2020 saw Gordon take on Ryan Blaney, allowing Logano and Wolfe to find their competitive rhythm.
Shared Competitive Spirit Fuels Success
Logano credits their shared competitive spirit as a cornerstone of their partnership. “I’m a competitive person,” he stated, highlighting their mutual desire to excel. Wolfe challenges Logano in ways that foster growth, even posing simple questions that provoke reflection on performance, such as whether a particular meal will enhance his speed.
Honesty and transparency are vital components of their relationship. Logano emphasized the importance of open communication, stating, “As soon as you guys start making up stories or lying to each other, that’s the end.” This commitment to truth has allowed them to navigate tough times together, particularly during challenging races or seasons.
Facing Challenges as Playoffs Approach
As they head into the playoffs, Logano acknowledges the season has not gone as planned. Despite qualifying for the playoffs with a victory at Texas earlier this year, he enters with just one win, three top-five finishes, and seven top-ten placements. The duo remains optimistic about turning their performance around.
“You’ve got to have those hard conversations,” Logano explained, comparing their dynamic to a marriage. He understands that frustration can arise, but believes that addressing issues head-on is essential for a strong relationship. “I don’t think there’s ever a moment that I feel like Paul hasn’t been honest with me,” he said, reinforcing the significance of their candid discussions.
With the playoffs underway, Logano and Wolfe are determined to replicate their past successes and strive for Logano’s fourth Cup championship. Their partnership, built on mutual respect, high expectations, and open dialogue, stands as a testament to what can be achieved when two competitive spirits unite in pursuit of excellence.
