Jimmie Johnson is set to mark a major milestone in his storied career, as he prepares to celebrate his 700th Cup Series start at Charlotte Motor Speedway. The race, scheduled for later this season, will see Johnson return to the track where his NASCAR journey began in 2001, making this event both a tribute to his roots and a remarkable achievement in the world of motor sports.
Although he stepped away from full-time competition at the conclusion of the 2020 season, Jimmie Johnson’s passion for racing has kept him firmly in the spotlight. Competing part-time with Legacy Motor Club, which he co-owns, Johnson regularly participates in iconic races like the Daytona 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte. This continued presence on the track underlines his enduring commitment to NASCAR and his incredible longevity as a driver.
In a recent reflection, Jimmie Johnson admitted that he lost count of his race starts after missing the 2020 Brickyard 400 due to a false COVID-19 positive test. Despite this brief setback, he remains as competitive as ever, recently achieving a strong P3 finish in the Daytona 500 with the #84 Toyota. This impressive drive reaffirmed his reputation and drew admiration from both fans and fellow competitors, demonstrating Johnson’s continuing talent and determination.
Returning to Charlotte for the 700th time is a moment filled with significance for Johnson. He shared, “I realized it quite late that my first race was at Charlotte Motor Speedway, and it will also be the venue of my 700th race.” For the 49-year-old driver, this coming full circle brings added meaning and reflection, especially having seen different sides of NASCAR after being inducted into the Hall of Fame.
Jimmie Johnson stands as one of NASCAR’s most distinguished champions, with seven Cup Series titles that place him alongside legends like Richard Petty and Dale Earnhardt. Reaching 700 starts solidifies his position among the sport’s greats and adds a rich chapter to his remarkable story. As Johnson takes to the Charlotte Motor Speedway once again, fans and the racing community have the chance to celebrate an extraordinary career, while wondering what further milestones and achievements may yet await this iconic driver.
