Jimmie Johnson’s Daytona 500 car gets a makeover after a surprising bet with Shaquille O’Neal. What started as a light-hearted wager has turned into a high-stakes challenge. Johnson, known for his dominance in the sport, found himself on the losing side, and now his car will wear a bold new design. How did this playful bet lead to such an unexpected twist, and what does the new look say about Johnson’s drive to win?
Key Highlights
- Jimmie Johnson lost a free throw contest bet to Shaquille O’Neal.
- As a result, O’Neal designed the paint scheme for Johnson’s Daytona 500 car.
- The unique design will debut on February 16th at the Daytona 500.
- The playful bet highlighted the friendship between Johnson and O’Neal.
- Johnson’s car is a #84 LMC Toyota for his return to the Daytona 500.
Jimmie Johnson Reveals Shaquille O’Neal-Designed Daytona 500 Paint Scheme
In a surprising twist of events, Jimmie Johnson, a legendary figure in NASCAR, revealed a unique paint scheme for his Daytona 500 car, designed by none other than retired NBA superstar Shaquille O’Neal.
This unexpected collaboration originated from a bet between Johnson and O’Neal, resulting in an eye-catching design for the #84 car. The announcement came through a playful social media video showing the towering Shaq humorously attempting to fit into Johnson’s race car, capturing attention and amusement from fans everywhere.
Johnson, co-owner of Legacy Motor Club, stayed true to his word, sharing his excitement on X with a promise to showcase the Shaq-inspired design on February 16th at the Daytona 500.
“Well, a bet’s a bet… @SHAQ designed it, and I’m sticking to my word. See it on track February 16th! #Daytona500” – Jimmie Johnson
Well, a bet’s a bet… @SHAQ designed it, and I’m sticking to my word. See it on track February 16th! #Daytona500 pic.twitter.com/JK1nDUm2PA
— Jimmie Johnson (@JimmieJohnson) February 8, 2025
The colorful scheme brings together the worlds of motorsports and basketball, offering a delightful twist to the iconic race. This move demonstrates Johnson’s playful side, while also honoring the sportsmanship and fellowship shared with O’Neal.
Jimmie Johnson Loses Free Throw Bet Against Shaq
Jimmie Johnson found himself on the losing end of a friendly wager against Shaquille O’Neal, as the two sports icons went head-to-head in a free throw shooting contest.
The challenge was straightforward: the initial to sink five free throws would win. Johnson and O’Neal, each renowned in their respective sports, took turns at the line, aiming to claim victory and the accompanying prize.
For Johnson, a win meant the opportunity to design O’Neal’s outfit for the Daytona 500 event, while a win for O’Neal granted him control over the design of Johnson’s #84 machine.
Ultimately, O’Neal’s shooting skill prevailed, allowing him to creatively influence Johnson’s car design.
Never thought my paint scheme would come down to a free-throw contest… but here we are. Going head-to-head with @SHAQ to decide my @Carvana scheme for Daytona. Who you got? pic.twitter.com/cwlGeGkNM2
— Jimmie Johnson (@JimmieJohnson) February 2, 2025
Johnson shared the experience with his followers on social media platform X, humorously noting the unique stakes of their competition.
“Never thought my paint scheme would come down to a free-throw contest… but here we are. Going head-to-head with @SHAQ to decide my @Carvana scheme for Daytona. Who you got?” – Jimmie Johnson
Jimmie Johnson Aims for 22nd Daytona 500 Start
As Jimmie Johnson gears up for his 22nd attempt to qualify for the Daytona 500, fans are excited to see if the racing legend can add another chapter to his storied career. Johnson, a two-time winner of this prestigious event in 2006 and 2013, will pilot the #84 LMC Toyota for his subsequent try. His remarkable career includes 19 full-time seasons in the NASCAR Cup Series, where he drove the #48 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet and secured 83 victories along with a record-tying seven championships.
Johnson retired from full-time racing in 2020, yet his return on a part-time basis with LMC in 2023 demonstrates his enduring passion for the sport. Fans excitedly anticipate his performance, hoping to witness another extraordinary moment in his celebrated career.
Jimmie Johnson Attends Super Bowl LIX Media Day
In the excitement of Super Bowl LIX, anticipation buzzed as racing legend Jimmie Johnson made his mark on Media Day in New Orleans. Known for his openness to media interactions, Johnson welcomed the vibrant atmosphere of “The Big Easy” and shared his experiences with fans.
His Instagram post, featuring a video clip, captured moments of his day, especially an engaging interview with SiriusXM Radio. Johnson’s caption, “Radio Row in The Big Easy. #SBLIX,” highlighted his enthusiasm for participating in the event.
View this post on Instagram
As a co-owner of Legacy Motor Club, alongside NASCAR great Richard Petty, Johnson balances his racing legacy with team leadership. The club currently fields two full-time cars driven by Erik Jones and John Hunter Nemechek, adding to Johnson’s busy schedule.
His presence at Media Day not only showcased his versatility beyond racing but also brought a touch of NASCAR flair to the Super Bowl festivities.
News in Brief: Jimmie Johnson’s Daytona 500 Car Gets a Makeover
Jimmie Johnson’s Daytona 500 car will sport a unique paint scheme designed by basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal after Johnson lost a free throw bet. This unexpected twist adds thrill to Johnson’s attempt at his 22nd Daytona 500 start.
The reveal came shortly after Johnson attended Super Bowl LIX Media Day, showcasing the fun and friendship shared across sports. Fans enthusiastically anticipate seeing how this playful design will add flair to Johnson’s racing legacy and performance.
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