In a fiery moment that stunned fans and left pit crews speechless, two-time NASCAR Cup Series Champion Joey Logano was caught on camera unleashing a profanity-laced rant at Team Penske teammate Austin Cindric following Bubba Wallace’s surprising stage win at Talladega Superspeedway this weekend.

The incident occurred shortly after Stage 2 of the race concluded, with Wallace edging out Logano in a dramatic final-lap battle. Logano, who had been leading much of the stage with drafting support from Cindric, was visibly furious when the support didn’t materialize in the closing laps — allowing Wallace to slide past for the win.

“You Left Me Hanging Out to Dry!”

Multiple reports from pit road confirm that Logano stormed toward Cindric’s hauler and confronted the young driver just moments after climbing out of his car. Eyewitnesses claim the veteran driver shouted phrases like “You left me hanging out to dry!” and “We’re supposed to be a team!”, laced with several unprintable expletives.

Video footage circulating on social media captured part of the confrontation. Logano can be heard yelling while gesturing angrily:

“That was my stage to win! And you let him walk past like you didn’t care!”

Cindric, visibly stunned by the aggression, reportedly tried to explain his perspective, saying he had “no clean lane” and that “Wallace had the momentum.” However, Logano wasn’t having it.

Bubba Wallace’s Unexpected Surge

While the team drama took center stage, Bubba Wallace’s stage win was a highlight in its own right. Driving with precision and aggression, Wallace made a bold move on the final lap, capitalizing on a gap left between Logano and Cindric. With a powerful push from behind, Wallace surged to the front just seconds before the green-and-white checkered flag.

The 23XI Racing driver has been showing consistent improvement throughout the season, and this stage win could be a turning point.

Speaking after the race, Wallace said:

“I saw an opportunity and went for it. That’s what racing is all about. I’m just focused on doing my job — whatever happens behind me is their business.”

Tensions Rise at Team Penske

This isn’t the first time friction has surfaced at Team Penske, but it’s arguably the most public outburst involving Logano since his championship win. With Playoff implications on the line, tensions are clearly mounting within the team as drivers fight for position and points.

Logano has always been known for his aggressive style and high expectations — especially when it comes to teammate support in drafting scenarios. However, many within the NASCAR community are questioning whether his reaction was warranted.

Racing analyst Larry McReynolds commented on-air:

“Joey’s frustration is understandable, but you have to wonder if he crossed the line here. These drivers are professionals — emotions are high, but words matter.”

Cindric Stays Cool

To his credit, Austin Cindric handled the confrontation with poise. Despite being verbally berated, he didn’t retaliate or escalate the situation.

Later in a post-race interview, he downplayed the incident:

“Joey’s passionate, and that’s why he’s a champion. I did what I thought was best in the moment. I’m sure we’ll talk it out like teammates.”

What’s Next?

NASCAR officials have not announced any penalties or investigations into the incident, as no physical altercation occurred. However, sources inside Team Penske suggest that a closed-door meeting is imminent to address the rising tension between its drivers.

With the Playoffs looming and every stage point critical, the internal chemistry of top teams like Penske will be tested more than ever. Whether this blow-up proves to be a temporary flare-up or a deeper rift remains to be seen.

For now, Joey Logano’s emotional explosion will serve as a stark reminder that in NASCAR, every second — and every teammate — counts.