Joey Logano is a regular presence in the Xfinity broadcasting booth and has extensive knowledge of the current state of the series.
NASCAR introduced the Next-Gen cars in the 2022 season with the main goal of creating a more equitable and competitive racing experience. As a result, they made several development decisions that have transformed the cars into entirely different entities compared to the Xfinity Cars, where young NASCAR drivers are honing their skills.
One of the significant changes is the alteration in throttle time. Previously, drivers had more leeway to ease off the gas pedal during races, but now they can no longer afford the same luxury due to the design of the cars. Conversely, the Xfinity Series cars, which adhere to similar regulations as the old Cup cars, allow drivers ample time to release the gas.
The first champion of the Next-Gen era, Joey Logano, openly admitted to feeling envious of the Xfinity drivers for having this advantage. As a broadcaster for Fox Sports on Saturdays, Logano frequently watches the in-car footage of Xfinity racers. He truly misses the moments when drivers can take their foot off the gas.
Joey Logano expresses his envy of the off-throttle time in the Xfinity Series races. Although it may not receive as much attention as other racing events, it is always an enjoyable listen.
The two-time Cup champion recalls the words of fellow champion Kyle Larson regarding IndyCar, highlighting the stark contrast between Cup and Xfinity cars. Larson, after testing an IndyCar for his upcoming debut in the Indy 500 with Arrow McLaren, noted that IndyCar now drives similarly to the current Cup cars, which was not the case in the past.
During Larson’s media availability in Indy, he mentioned how the next-gen car actually drives somewhat similarly to an Indy car now. I thought that was the most astonishing thing I had ever heard.
Joey Logano remarked.
In addressing the situation, Logano indirectly suggests that NASCAR must find a way to bridge the gap between the cars in the first and second divisions. Otherwise, rookie drivers could face a daunting challenge in the Cup series, as they would be dealing with a significantly different car and limited practice time while entering with high expectations.