Dale Earnhardt Jr. Weighs In on Joey Logano-Ross Chastain Controversy in Chicago
NASCAR Hall of Famer Dale Earnhardt Jr. has spoken out about the recent incident involving Joey Logano and Ross Chastain during the chaotic finish of the Chicago Street Race. With emotions running high following a late-race collision, Logano publicly voiced his frustration, suggesting that Chastain should be penalized by NASCAR for the incident. However, Earnhardt Jr. believes the situation is far more complex and doesn’t necessarily warrant disciplinary action.
The drama unfolded in the closing laps of the race when Logano, who was running near the front, was involved in a multi-car chain reaction incident that ultimately led to Chastain making contact with him. While Logano hinted that Chastain’s response to the situation was excessive, leading some to believe he was pushing for a fine or penalty, Earnhardt Jr. offered a different perspective.
According to Earnhardt Jr., despite Logano’s sharp comments post-race, he doesn’t truly want NASCAR to penalize Chastain. “I don’t think Joey genuinely wants Ross to be fined,” Earnhardt explained during a recent episode of his popular podcast. “He was just frustrated in the heat of the moment. That’s racing—tempers flare, especially when you’re in the thick of it and the stakes are high.”
Earnhardt Jr. further emphasized the unpredictable nature of street racing, especially on a tight and technical course like Chicago’s. He noted that incidents such as this one are inevitable and often stem from a combination of factors—aggressive driving, limited visibility, and the narrow confines of temporary street circuits.
The Chicago race was already known for its challenging layout and intense on-track battles. With rain delays, shifting track conditions, and a compressed racing line, tensions were bound to boil over. Logano, the defending Cup Series champion, had every reason to be upset after a race-altering wreck, but Earnhardt Jr. urged fans and officials to consider the broader context.
“This wasn’t some deliberate move from Ross,” Earnhardt added. “He reacted to what was happening around him, just like Joey did. It’s unfortunate, but that’s part of what makes street racing so unpredictable and exciting.”
NASCAR has not issued any penalties related to the incident, and it appears unlikely that further action will be taken. In the end, Earnhardt Jr.’s take provides a grounded reminder that while rivalries and conflicts fuel fan interest, not every crash or confrontation demands a punishment.
As the Cup Series heads into its next round, all eyes will be on whether this latest incident fuels an ongoing rivalry or simply becomes another chapter in NASCAR’s unpredictable and thrilling 2025 season.