Joey Logano entered the Federated Auto Parts 400 at Richmond Raceway as a top contender but ended up in 19th place after a wreck caused by Austin Dillon. Despite Logano’s complaints about the incident, NASCAR couldn’t change the outcome, and Dillon was penalized, losing his playoff spot.

Two weeks later, Logano faced another setback at the Coke Zero Sugar 400. Although he performed well, including winning the second stage, he was caught in a multi-car crash caused by a flip involving Michael McDowell and Austin Cindric. Logano’s car was severely damaged, resulting in a 34th-place finish. In both races, Logano’s promising performances were marred by unfortunate endings. While he criticized Dillon after Richmond, he only had cautious praise for Harrison Burton’s driving skills.

Logano showers praises on Harrison Burton

The 34-year-old Team Penske ace racer knows what it feels like to achieve a first Cup Series win at a young age. After all, while Harrison Burton is 24, Joey Logano was only 19 when he outshined other racers to secure his first Cup Series win at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. However, in a moment when his performance is not undeserving of just one win in the Cup Series at Nashville Superspeedway, praising other racers might be difficult for Logano.

However, after a historic win by Harrison Burton at the Daytona International Speedway, the No. 22 recollected his thoughts to praise him for the monumental feat he has achieved. Praising Burton as a person and the temperament he displayed before the win, Logano said, “I definitely see some similarities there. You know, Harrison, everyone’s said a lot of good things about Harrison this week. I’d say it’s the person probably is what stands out the most of me about his character throughout the last three years.” 

Further highlighting Harrison Burton’s ability to contain his emotions. The focus he has on his races as a thorough professional. Logano added, “I sit next to him and you know there is a lot of emotions after a race. Typically, I have a hard time dealing with a lot of them. You know, try to get over it quickly. He always seems to have an upbeat attitude. It always impressed me.” Burton and Logano have long been associated with each other since the two racers are affiliated teammates. Since 2015, there has been a technical alliance between Team Penske and Wood Brothers Racing.

Another Team Penske star, Ryan Blaney, also shared his heartfelt thoughts. Reflecting on the family ties he has with the Burtons, the 30-year-old said, “He works really hard. He’s just a nice kid from a great family and I was super happy for him last week. It was nice to be able to share some of that, you know, with Leonard. Eddie and Len were there. John and Ballins, and everybody. So yeah, he’s definitely growing. I hope you know, I hope he lands somewhere good next year cuz he deserves it and we find out.”

While Harrison Burton’s playoff spot is final for the season, it might very well be his last run with the Wood Brothers Racing. The 24-year-old had earlier announced that he would not be returning for the next season at WBR. With his recent win at the Daytona International Speedway, several teams are interested in offering a contract to the bright, young racing prodigy.

A bright talent is up for grabs!

The most prominent team currently in contract negotiations for Burton is Kaulig Racing. The team offers a perfect balance for Burton in terms of experience and opportunities. Kaulig Racing is currently expanding its presence in the Cup Series and is the reason they are looking for fresh talents with a long, sustainable future on the team.

Interestingly, they are also in negotiations with Zane Smith. A former Trackhouse Racing young talent, Zane Smith, will enter the 2025 transfer market as a free agent. Only time will tell whether Kaulig Racing is planning to hire both inexperienced drivers or decides to choose either of them.

Aug 24, 2024; Daytona Beach, Florida, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Harrison Burton (21) poses for fans after winning the Coke 400 at Daytona International Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Mike Watters-USA TODAY Sports.Other teams are also in the mix.

After the closing down of Stewart-Haas Racing, Gene Haas decided to launch the Haas Factory Team. The newly founded team focuses primarily on the Cup and Xfinity series. It can provide a decent opportunity for the 24-year-old. Additionally, a move to the Xfinity Series with a reputed team like Joe Gibbs Racing is also not off the books for Harrison Burton.