Joey Logano secured his third NASCAR Cup Series championship, joining an elite group of just ten drivers, despite finishing the season with the worst average finish (17.11) of any champion in history. His win in the playoffs has sparked controversy regarding the legitimacy of the current playoff format, which allowed him to win despite a lackluster regular season performance compared to drivers like Kyle Larson, who had six victories but did not make the Championship 4. Logano strongly defended his title, arguing that all drivers compete under the same rules and that his team excelled when it mattered most. He emphasized that the playoff format is similar to those in other sports, where regular-season success does not guarantee a championship. Amidst criticism, Logano remains unbothered, asserting that winning under the current system is valid and earned. His victory continues to fuel discussions on the effectiveness of NASCAR's playoff system and its implications for future championships.