Joey Logano, Shell extend contracts with Team Penske

Joey Logano, crew chief Todd Gordon, and sponsor Shell have reached a long-term contract extension with Team Penske, the NASCAR Cup Series organization announced Friday.

The specific terms of the deals were not disclosed, only that the extensions were “through 2022 and beyond.” Shell will serve as primary sponsor on Logano’s No. 22 Ford for 30 of 36 races each season.

Logano joined Penske in 2013 after being released by Joe Gibbs Racing following four subpar seasons. He often struggled with the adjustment of being named Tony Stewart’s replacement as an 18 year old and a lack of Cup Series experience.

But the 26-year-old Logano has thrived driving a Roger Penske-owned car, winning 15 races — including the 2015 Daytona 500 — and twice qualifying for the Cup one-race playoff final four that determines the championship. His victory tally during his Penske tenure only trails Jimmie Johnson (20) and Kevin Harvick (16).

“This was one of those decisions that was a no-brainer,” Logano said. “When you find yourself in an amazing opportunity with a lot of winners around you, that’s great.”

With Logano now under contract for the foreseeable future, Penske said the team is working toward re-signing Brad Keselowski, whose contract is set to expire at the end of the season.

Team Penske’s extension with Shell also includes the organization’s Verizon IndyCar Series team with driver Helio Castroneves. The 41-year-old Castroneves is a three-time Indianapolis 500 winner and one of the most popular figures in open-wheel. Additionally, Shell and Roger Penske’s vast nonmotorsports business holdings, which include auto dealerships and truck rentals, will continue.