
THE MEDIATOR: We are thrilled to start our post-race media session with the triumphant group. Joining us are the team chief of the No. 22 group, Paul Wolfe, and the Vice Chairman of Team Penske, Walt Czarnecki. Congratulations to both of you! Can you take us through those awesome last laps and share your feelings at this minute?
PAUL WOLFE: Thank you! It was certainly a long and difficult day for us, specifically beginning with a less-than-ideal certifying efficiency the other day. However, we believed in our automobile after practice and understood we might enhance. Throughout the day, we stood firm and gradually made development. The track ended up being rather competitive, which was motivating; we were at first unsure if it would permit several racing lines. Practice typically sees vehicles running in a file, making surpassing challenging, however our vehicles carried out incredibly well. Clearly, all the Penske vehicles were quickly today, with numerous people in advance leading laps, showcasing our cumulative strength.
Our No. 22 group combated hard all day. As I discussed previously, we didn’t certify well, and our pit stall choice wasn’t perfect. Nevertheless, the group adjusted remarkably and performed a strong day on pit roadway, provided the scenarios. Joey regularly shows his abilities at the end of these races when he’s put in a competitive position. Coleman said on this earlier—there’s genuinely nobody much better than him in these circumstances. It’s thrilling to be part of this journey, and I’m delighted we might protect our very first win of the season.
This year has actually been rather of a battle; we’ve revealed speed however haven’t had the ability to equate that into outcomes. It feels wonderful to have a strong day and lastly reach success lane.
THE MEDIATOR: Walt, would you like to include anything?
WALTER CZARNECKI: Thank you! First and primary, congratulations to Paul and Joey. Before the race, I asked Paul about his method, considering our less-than-optimal beginning position. He with confidence responded, “We’ve got a fast car,” which frame of mind definitely settled.
I am extremely happy with this group. Team Penske has actually been providing competitive vehicles throughout the very first 11 races of the season. We’ve regularly remained in contention in each race, certifying well and having chances to win. Now, with 2 wins back-to-back, I hope this functions as a considerable momentum home builder for us progressing.
Moreover, it’s not practically bringing great vehicles; we’ve remained in the mix. I think Blaney will likewise discover his time to shine quickly.
THE MEDIATOR: Let’s dive into some concerns.
Q. For both of you, and Walt, you discussed it with Blaney. Does this success represent a sigh of relief? With Cindric winning last weekend and now Joey protecting this win, does it relieve a few of the pressure after a tough start to the season? How does it feel for a company like yours?
WALTER CZARNECKI: I wouldn’t explain it as a sigh of relief however rather as a decrease in pressure. Here we are, approaching the 11th race of the year, with 2 of our vehicles currently clinching playoff areas. This offers the group a little bit of breathing space, enabling us to check out techniques we may not have actually otherwise thought about.
Our existing objective stays getting Ryan Blaney into the playoffs, however as I discussed to Paul previously, I believe it’s reasonable to state the pressure has actually alleviated. Right, Paul?
PAUL WOLFE: Absolutely, as you stated, we’ve had strong vehicles and have actually remained in contention. I think Blaney might have declared several wins by now. I genuinely worth our team effort, especially with the No. 12 automobile. Our close cooperation is important, specifically provided the minimal track time we deal with nowadays. It’s important that we assist each other enhance on race day, and I value the assistance we provide one another.
Q. Paul, we regularly hear you and the chauffeurs highlight the significance of track position, specifically on these mile-and-a-half tracks. Yet, when I examine the ending up order, it’s significant that just Kyle Larson, who began in the leading 10, ended up there. What triggered this inversion in beginning and ending up positions?
PAUL WOLFE: I think the track conditions played a considerable function. As I discussed previously, the track ended up being more competitive as the race advanced, enabling several racing lines. During practice, we saw circumstances where we reached slower vehicles however couldn’t pass due to the single-file nature of the track. As the race unfolded and the track opened, it supplied chances for chauffeurs with quick vehicles to advance.
Additionally, we saw numerous techniques including two-tire stops to get track position. Although we considered this alternative, our pit stall circumstance complicated our capability to carry out efficiently. Given that the No. 35 automobile was pitting right in front of us, we experienced hold-ups that made it challenging to take advantage of a two-tire method. Ultimately, our automobile’s speed permitted us to advance through the field without requiring to take that gamble.
Q. Paul, after recently’s occasions, existed a part of you that believed, “If we miss the playoffs by a narrow margin, I’ll regret last week?” Does this success assistance relieve any disappointments from that occurrence?
PAUL WOLFE: Wins have a unique method of recovery lots of injuries and reducing disappointments. Last week was definitely regrettable, and we’re not happy with what happened. It was a knowing experience, as I’ve interacted to our group. We comprehend what failed, and we are dedicated to avoiding comparable errors in the future.
Fortunately, we have extraordinary partners and owners who acknowledge that in some cases these difficulties are simply part of the sport. Competing at the edge of efficiency can cause errors, and we should gain from them to enhance. We’ve moved our focus towards bringing quick vehicles and placing ourselves for success, and I think we showed that this weekend.
Q. Bob, have you made your choices for this year’s champion yet? Are we because mix?
Q. You’re in the playoffs.
PAUL WOLFE: Oh, we are? That’s terrific news! I’m sure Joey will be happy, although he may value it when individuals root versus him due to the fact that it fuels his competitive spirit.
Q. (Off microphone).
WALTER CZARNECKI: I’d like to take a minute to acknowledge Benjamin and Sebastian Würth, who took a trip here from Germany. They are the principals of the Würth Company, a veteran sponsor and partner of ours, and have actually supported this occasion. Their existence here today is considerable, and they were enjoyed witness our success. In reality, among them asked me in success lane, “What’s the next race we should attend?” I recommended we wait up until the playoffs begin to select. It’s wonderful to share these minutes with our sponsors and occasion partners.
THE MEDIATOR: Thank you for your time, and congratulations as soon as again.
We are enjoyed invite the winner these days’s Wurth 400 at Texas Motor Speedway, Joey Logano, motorist of the No. 22 AAA Ford from Team Penske. Joey, this win is especially unique as it marks your very first success with AAA on the automobile. What does this achievement indicate for you and the group?
JOEY LOGANO: Yes, it lastly took place! There were minutes when I questioned if I would ever win for these guys. AAA has actually been a wonderful partner for Team Penske and myself for over 14 years. It’s been frustrating to come so close many times without reaching success lane.
This win is unique due to the fact that we lastly provided for them and for the No. 22 group. After the difficulties we dealt with recently, it seems like a real 22 group minute. I’m extremely happy with our group for supplying me with a quick automobile. I had an exceptional lorry that permitted me to systematically browse through the competitors, carry out some strong restarts, and eventually protect the win.
The last laps were thrilling. There was an especially tense minute heading down the back straightaway that felt rather dangerous, however I understood I needed to make that relocation, and it eventually settled.
THE MEDIATOR: We’ll now open the flooring for concerns.
Q. You discussed the disqualification from recently. Does this win assistance eliminate any negativeness from that experience?
JOEY LOGANO: There’s constantly a brand-new chapter to compose in this sport, isn’t there? I informed my partner before leaving recently, “Watch, we’ll come back and win this one. It’s just how we operate.”
Whenever we deal with misfortune, it appears to spark a fire within us. We certainly had a quick automobile today, and I’m grateful we might move the narrative progressing.
Q. You went over the difficulties of handing down this track. Some chauffeurs discussed problems with bumps and track stability. Given that there’s still some PJ1 left on the surface area, do you believe this warrants an evaluation, or should we accept the status quo?
JOEY LOGANO: It’s undoubtedly challenging to pass. That’s the truth we deal with at every place. All the vehicles are competitive, so surpassing somebody addressing the exact same speed is difficult.
That’s why lots of chauffeurs want to take dangers with techniques to get to the front and safe tidy air. We saw numerous require two-tire stops today, to name a few techniques, however there were chances to race. There were minutes when the leading lane in turns one and 2 showed reliable, and chauffeurs might blend it up by attempting various lines.
In turns 3 and 4, some vehicles handled to run high, although we weren’t among them. However, I observed others effectively made passes. Overall, I felt the 2nd half of the race ended up being rather competitive, and a number of the races this weekend included considerable action. In conclusion, I believe it was an effective race weekend for Texas, and I wouldn’t take anything far from that.
Q. It appears there was a total inversion in the beginning lineup concerning the ending up order. Does that amaze you, or was it mostly due to pit techniques and the timing of warns?
JOEY LOGANO: Indeed, some strong vehicles began towards the back. There were circumstances when a few of the leading competitors lost their positions due to charges or events. The several wrecks towards completion mixed the field substantially. However, we regularly selected 4 tires on rest stop.
We prevented the two-tire method due to our stall being impacted by the No. 35 automobile remaining in front people. We felt it was much safer to stick to 4 tires because doing otherwise might have wreaked havoc on pit roadway. Our focus stayed on gradually climbing up through the ranks, which method settled.
Q. Did you sense that lots of chauffeurs would come across troubles on the track?
JOEY LOGANO: I didn’t anticipate that result particularly. However, I comprehend how this sport runs, and you need to be gotten ready for anything. While recently was difficult, I understand that each brand-new Sunday provides a fresh opportunity for redemption, and we attained that today.
Q. Many leading chauffeurs dealt with difficulties today, yet you handled to prevent events. What do you associate this to?
JOEY LOGANO: There are numerous elements at play here. Ultimately, the setup of the automobile matters substantially. Some chauffeurs might have a setup that permits them to press their vehicles closer to the edge and handle more threat. This can either settle handsomely or cause catastrophe.
The bumps in turns 3 and 4 are especially harsh. Everyone is attempting to optimize their automobile’s efficiency, and if you’re somewhat loose and struck a bump, you might lose control totally. It’s everything about stabilizing threat and benefit throughout the race. You require to examine when to press your limitations and when to play it safe. Every motorist approaches this in a different way, and the setup plays an important function in those choices.
Q. You discussed that when misfortune strikes, it fires up a competitive spirit within your group. How do you cultivate that culture throughout your company?
JOEY LOGANO: It’s everything about frame of mind. Anytime somebody makes an unfavorable remark or criticism, it can work as inspiration to show them incorrect. When confronted with doubt, you can transport that energy into decision. Every employee feels this pressure in a different way, however it’s a typical thread that can move us forward.
I wouldn’t state I put in more effort one week over another, however something shifts unconsciously when we deal with difficulties. The playoffs highlight an increased sense of seriousness, which competitive drive is transmittable. I believe lots of people can connect to this idea; when somebody reviews your work, it typically presses you to enhance. It’s that prefer to increase above expectations that fuels our success.
Q. So, after a rocky start to the season, how considerable is it for you to now have a win and protect a playoff area at this phase?
JOEY LOGANO: Honestly, I entered into this race simply wishing to protect a strong surface to construct momentum. We paid the rate for recently’s battles throughout certifying, which led to a bad pit stall choice. My objective was to begin collecting points and trying the standings.
Surprisingly, we discovered ourselves in a position to win, and I’m delighted we profited from that chance. This win is a crucial action in structure momentum, and it feels terrific to have that energy streaming once again.
Q. Regarding the two-tire call made by Michael McDowell, lots of on pit roadway were impressed by its efficiency. Were you amazed that 2 tires held up so well late in the race?
JOEY LOGANO: It worked for a number of factors. First, Michael had the ability to protect tidy air on his automobile, which is important for preserving grip. If he had actually lost that tidy air, the absence of grip would have emerged. Throughout the day, we observed that as soon as two-tire vehicles were surpassed by others, they rapidly lost their rate.
Michael did an impressive task on restarts, preserving his lead and protecting it efficiently for a considerable part of the race. However, the frequency of warns contributed in enabling him to keep up front. With 40 laps staying, numerous successive warns assisted him preserve his position.
Q. Paul discussed that you both participated in a dirt track occasion together last night.
JOEY LOGANO: Yes, we did!
Q. Building sociability like that is essential. How does it boost the driver-crew chief relationship?
JOEY LOGANO: It’s vital to acknowledge that we’re on the exact same group. Paul and I have an understanding of our functions. I made it clear to him throughout the offseason that I have locations where I can enhance, and I require his assistance because procedure—whether it’s making the automobile much better or assisting me fine-tune my driving abilities.
No one is ideal; everybody has strengths and weak points. When the group runs cohesively, we can conquer numerous difficulties. I think that nobody on our group feels threatened about their task security, which permits us to support each other efficiently. This sociability is important for our success.
It was enjoyable going to the dirt track occasion. I laugh due to the fact that if you understand Paul, you understand he’s careful about whatever. He likes whatever to be ideal—he gets upset if his drapes aren’t hung ideal. So, it was entertaining to see him endeavor into the dirt racing world, specifically because he’s not a fan of it. Watching the sprint vehicles race was an eye-opener for me; their speed and ability are outstanding.
Q. Did you take pleasure in the experience?
JOEY LOGANO: Absolutely! Those sprint automobile chauffeurs are extremely skilled. It’s interesting to witness their ability, and it’s a totally various discipline from what we do. I’ve never ever driven one, however it looks thrilling. It was terrific to get in touch with them; they’re all extremely friendly.
Q. Paul was worried you may capture the dirt racing bug.
JOEY LOGANO: There’s certainly a part of me that discovers it appealing, however I likewise consider my profession, my household, and my duties. I think of my sponsors and Roger Penske. So, while it looks enjoyable, I understand I require to remain concentrated on my main task.
Q. You’ve constantly been understood for your capability to carry out under pressure, and today was no exception. What did you and the No. 22 group discover that assisted you be successful in sealing the deal at such an unforeseeable track?
JOEY LOGANO: Looking at the last restarts, everything boils down to the preparation and techniques we set out previously in the race. By that point, we aren’t making anymore rest stop; it’s simply me and Coleman interacting to make the ideal options on track, whether it’s picking our lane or handling the equipments throughout the reboot.
You need to count on the insights got from previous restarts and the general race characteristics to make educated choices.
Q. This success marks your 37th win, breaking a tie with Brad Keselowski and positioning you along with Bobby Isaac in the all-time standings. What does this accomplishment indicate to you, specifically considering your history with Brad?
JOEY LOGANO: It’s rather an accomplishment! I have tremendous regard for Brad as a motorist and a lot more as an individual. I consider him a buddy. It’s amazing to have actually raced versus him throughout my profession, and I value the function he played in bringing me to Team Penske. He urged Roger to bring me on board, and I owe a lot to him for that.
It’s interesting to break ties with him and to be compared to a legend like Bobby Isaac. I don’t concentrate on these statistics typically, however it’s pleasing to see development. I understand there’s still a lot more to attain, and while it’s satisfying to collect wins, I think it’s important to make a significant effect beyond simply the numbers.
NASCAR PR
More Stories
USAC Sprints in Southern Indiana: Bloomington & Tri-State May 9-10
Kansas Speedway RCR Race Preview: What to Expect
Lamborghini Super Trofeo Heads West to WeatherTech Raceway