Jimmie Johnson set for 700th NASCAR Cup Series start at the Coca-Cola 600 in Charlotte this weekend, racing for Legacy Motor Club. While many speculated this major milestone would mark the end of Johnson’s Cup Series journey, recent statements from NASCAR insiders have confirmed that he has no immediate plans to retire.
Jimmie Johnson’s path to motorsport greatness
Jimmie Johnson is considered one of NASCAR’s all-time greatest drivers, making his full-time Cup Series debut with Hendrick Motorsports in 2002. Quickly establishing dominance, Johnson matched a record with seven Cup Series championships—most notably, achieving an unrivaled five consecutive titles from 2006 through 2010. Over his career, he has amassed more than 200 top-five finishes and exceeding 340 top-ten runs, cementing his place among legends of the sport.
Upon retiring from full-time racing, Johnson transitioned to becoming co-owner of Legacy Motor Club, where he continues to make occasional starts in the Cup Series piloting the #84. NASCAR journalist Jeff Gluck addressed ongoing rumors about Johnson’s future plans by stating on the social platform X:
“There’s been speculation that 700 for seven-time is the end, but FYI that’s not the plan. It’s a significant round number at the place where JJ made his first start, but we will see him in a Cup car again.” —Jeff Gluck, NASCAR journalist
Special tributes and a one-of-a-kind car for the 700th race
For Johnson’s milestone start, the #84 car will feature a custom paint scheme crafted by primary sponsor Carvana. The design includes his iconic neon yellow numbers—a tribute to the celebrated #48 car from his championship era—and incorporates bold Carvana branding. Adding to the car’s significance, the vehicle will honor the memory of 1st Lt. Mathew Robert Davis, USMC, a fallen service member, thanks to a collaboration with CarVets, Carvana’s group supporting veterans.
Reflecting on a historic journey in racing
In the lead-up to the Coca-Cola 600, Johnson shared a heartfelt video and message across social media, highlighting memorable moments from his career, from his first Cup Series start and victory to all seven championships. This retrospective reminded fans that Johnson remains the only driver in history to win five Cup Series championships in consecutive years.
“Been a long road. Wouldn’t change a mile,” —Jimmie Johnson, NASCAR driver and co-owner
Returning to the Charlotte track, where both his Cup Series debut and 700th start will have taken place, has deepened the personal meaning of this weekend’s achievement for Johnson. During a recent press conference, he described his journey with humility and pride, reflecting on rising from his roots as
“just a guy from California who wanted to race.”
This major racing milestone promises not only a celebration of one of NASCAR’s most accomplished figures but also hints at more appearances from Jimmie Johnson in the Cup Series in the future.
