Jimmie Johnson, the celebrated seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, is preparing for a remarkable weekend in auto racing, capturing the spotlight with his participation in the upcoming Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600. On the same weekend, Johnson will first take Tom Brady around the legendary Indianapolis Motor Speedway for ceremonial laps before heading south to make his 700th career NASCAR start at Charlotte Motor Speedway. These consecutive appearances mark a unique moment, as both events will be held next weekend, heightening the excitement surrounding Johnson’s involvement.
The Indianapolis 500 recently announced that Tom Brady, the renowned football icon, will occupy the “Fastest Seat in Sports” just moments before the race officially kicks off, with Jimmie Johnson in the driver’s seat. This special event will see the two sports legends share the famed Indy car for a few fast-paced, ceremonial laps, offering fans a memorable crossover between disciplines. As Johnson explained in a press release,
“I love the Indy 500. There is an energy and excitement around the 500 that is unlike anything I have experienced before. Certainly, pre-race ceremonies are the ultimate racing experience that I’ve had outside of the car. I’m thrilled to be a part of the program and to see the stands full one more time. I’m extremely honored to come back and do it and to be able to also share this experience with another seven-time champion.”
This collaborative moment comes just ahead of Johnson’s second race of the 2025 NASCAR season, the Coca-Cola 600, which will also mark his 700th start, a milestone few drivers ever reach. NASCAR fans expressed a mixed range of reactions to the news that Jimmie Johnson would take on the Indy 500 ceremonial role so close to competing in a major NASCAR event. Some shared amusement, with one fan joking,
“With the way this weather is going, Jimmie Johnson might be back behind the wheel of an IndyCar.”
Others questioned the decision, with a social media user asking,
“Why not have someone that drove IndyCar more than a minute do this?”
Despite differing opinions, the announcement generated significant buzz across motorsports communities.
The 109th running of the Indianapolis 500 will be broadcast on FOX, with coverage beginning at 10 a.m. ET, ensuring widespread viewership of Jimmie Johnson and Tom Brady’s ceremonial lap. As Johnson prepares for both his symbolic Indy 500 appearance and his historic 700th start in the Coca-Cola 600, his rare “double duty” not only cements his status as a motorsports legend but also fuels speculation about future racing opportunities and the enduring appeal of his crossover efforts. The impact of Johnson’s ambitious weekend may inspire a new level of appreciation for the stamina, versatility, and star power such crossover events bring to racing.
