Two-time NASCAR Cup champion Joey Logano recently weighed in on the ongoing debate surrounding Kyle Larson’s eligibility for the Cup playoffs. Larson, who has won two NASCAR Cup races this year, missed the Coca-Cola 600 after finishing 18th in the rain-delayed Indianapolis 500. According to NASCAR rules, a driver must compete in every race to qualify for the playoffs unless they obtain a waiver.
If anyone listened to what I said yesterday, I never picked a side. I was pointing out the tough decision that NASCAR is in. Since words have been twisted yet again….here’s what I think…
What Larson did for Motorsports was amazing, and he should get the waiver. https://t.co/CTQgapivci
— Joey Logano (@joeylogano) May 29, 2024
Logano referred to Larson’s situation as “the grayest rule we have in our sport.” The key difference in Larson’s case, as Logano pointed out, was that he decided the Indy 500 was more important than the Coca-Cola 600. Logano acknowledged that attempting the “Double” (racing in both the Indy 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on the same day) was an impressive feat.
Logano emphasized that Kyle Larson’s contribution to motorsports was remarkable, and he believed Larson should receive the waiver. While some questioned whether Larson deserved it, Logano’s stance was clear: “What Larson did for Motorsports was amazing, and he should get the waiver.” Logano also acknowledged that many people were involved in Larson’s decision-making process, and attempting the Double was an impressive achievement.
What Is a Playoff Waiver? The Kyle Larson Conundrum
NASCAR’s playoff system is designed to reward consistency and performance throughout the season. Drivers who accumulate points by finishing well in races secure their spots in the postseason. However, there are exceptions to this rule, and one of the most debated exceptions is the playoff waiver.
A playoff waiver allows a driver to participate in the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs despite missing a race or races during the regular season. Typically, drivers must compete in every race to qualify for the playoffs. However, if they face extenuating circumstances—such as injury, illness, or other exceptional situations—they can request a waiver from NASCAR.
Kyle Larson has found himself in a unique position. Larson has won two Cup races this year and currently stands third in the points standings. However, he missed the Coca-Cola 600 after finishing 18th in the rain-delayed Indianapolis 500. According to NASCAR rules, this would disqualify him from the playoffs unless he obtains a waiver.
READ MORE: Denny Hamlin Sends Last Message to Stewart-Haas Racing:’s Decades of Contributions to NASCAR
