In a masterful display of fuel strategy, Joey Logano clinched victory in Sunday’s South Point 400 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, securing the first spot in NASCAR’s Championship 4. The two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion led only six laps but made them count when it mattered most.

The win marks a dramatic turnaround for Logano, who just a week ago believed his championship hopes were dashed at the Charlotte Motor Speedway road course. His fortune changed when post-race inspection revealed Alex Bowman’s car was underweight, resulting in Logano’s reinstatement to the playoffs.

“What an incredible turn of events here the last week,” Logano celebrated after the race. “We’re going to the Championship 4 again. It’s real.”

Despite Christopher Bell’s dominance throughout the race, leading an impressive 155 of 267 laps, Logano’s strategic late-race fuel conservation proved decisive. The margin of victory was a mere 0.662 seconds, with Bell unable to overcome the 30-second deficit created by his later pit stop strategy.

Daniel Suárez secured third place, followed by playoff contender William Byron and Alex Bowman to round out the top five. The victory holds special significance for Logano, as it ties him with NASCAR Hall of Famer Jimmie Johnson for most all-time wins at Las Vegas with four.

The race significantly impacted the playoff standings, with several championship contenders facing setbacks. A major incident on Lap 89 eliminated Tyler Reddick, Chase Elliott, and damaged Ryan Blaney’s chances, while others struggled with pit road challenges throughout the afternoon.

With the win, Logano automatically advances to the Championship 4, while the remaining playoff drivers will continue their battle for the final three spots over the next two races at Homestead-Miami Speedway and Martinsville Speedway.

The victory particularly showcased Team Penske’s strategic prowess, with crew chief Paul Wolfe making the crucial calls that secured the win. “It takes the whole team to do the fuel-mileage stuff,” Logano acknowledged. “We may not have been the fastest car today, but we were a solid top-five car and were able to maximize it at the end.”

The NASCAR Cup Series continues next weekend at Homestead-Miami Speedway, where the remaining playoff contenders will look to join Logano in the Championship 4.

Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Image