Joey Logano, a three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, has added a special twist to the tradition surrounding the exclusive NASCAR Champion’s Journal. Instead of simply writing a message for the next champion as in past years, Logano invited Richard Petty, one of the sport’s all-time greats, to contribute to the journal. This gesture took place ahead of the Cup race at Circuit of the Americas, where Logano sought to honor the legacy of champions by including “The King” in the journal’s history.
Collaborating with Legends: Logano and Jimmie Johnson Discuss the Idea
Before presenting the journal to Petty, Logano consulted Jimmie Johnson, who originally started the journal tradition. The Team Penske driver recalled the conversation:
“I said, ‘Hey, I was thinking I wanted to let Richard Petty look at it because I thought this guy’s won seven of them.’ This started post his championship, so I thought it’d be really cool for him to read it and write something in it.”
Johnson agreed with the plan, making way for Petty to leave his mark in this historic record.
Richard Petty’s Artistic Contribution to the NASCAR Journal
Petty’s journal entry impressed Logano greatly, as it featured an autograph-like script that resembled art. Logano described the autograph’s style and content:
“Richard wrote something in there — it was awesome,”
“Looks like art, just the way you’d expect it with his autograph. But everything he wrote was all the same font as this autograph. Really cool.”
This unique approach to signing the journal added a personal and artistic flair, further enriching the tradition.
Logano’s Respect for Team Penske’s Enduring Legacy
Logano’s initiative reflects his deep respect for NASCAR’s history and for Penske’s longstanding presence in the sport. As Team Penske celebrates its 60th anniversary, Logano expressed pride in the organization’s sustained success despite the competitive nature of motorsports:
“It’s neat that we’ve been able to be around for that long at the level that I’ve been,”
“Sometimes there’s businesses that are fly-by-night, figure out something, good for a little bit, but it can’t be sustained. The way Roger’s done it is pretty incredible to be doing it for something for 60 years these days. That’s why I’m proud to be a part of it, because he’s doing it right. And on the inside, I can tell you it definitely is that way.”
This statement highlights the stability and dedication behind one of NASCAR’s most prominent teams.
Challenges Still Ahead for Penske at Circuit of the Americas
Notwithstanding Team Penske’s broad success, the franchise has found victory elusive at several tracks, including Circuit of the Americas (COTA). The only Penske win at COTA came recently in the 2025 Lone Star Le Mans competition, part of the World Endurance Championship, rather than NASCAR events. Other circuits without Penske wins include Dover, San Diego, Sonoma, Chicagoland, and Indianapolis.
Logano acknowledges the difficulty but remains focused on the future, aiming for another NASCAR Cup title and the chance to reclaim the Champion’s Journal.
Encouraging Future Champions to Join the Tradition
Looking ahead, Logano challenged current drivers to enrich the journal’s legacy further. Specifically, he called on Kyle Larson to bring fresh contributions from impactful champions who have yet to be part of the journal. He explained his vision:
“I did challenge (Kyle) Larson to try to do something cool with it as well and maybe bring it to another champion that has not gotten to see it or written in it that’s really impactful in our sport.”
This invitation underscores the journal’s role as a living document that connects generations of NASCAR champions.
Significance of Preserving NASCAR’s Championship History
The Champion’s Journal serves as more than a keepsake; it’s a symbol of NASCAR’s rich heritage and the drivers who have left their mark on the sport. Logano’s decision to involve a legend like Richard Petty reinforces the value of honoring past champions while motivating current and future drivers to contribute to the ongoing story. As Team Penske continues to pursue victories and growth, this tradition strengthens the bonds within the racing community and keeps the memory of championships alive for generations to come.
