This weekend marks a significant moment for Jimmie Johnson as he prepares for his 700th NASCAR Cup Series start, making his return to Charlotte Motor Speedway, where his Cup journey began in 2001. The legendary driver, known for his enduring career and multiple victories, continues to build his legacy with each race, highlighting the focus keyword: Jimmie Johnson 700th NASCAR Cup Series start.
With Johnson set to reach 700 starts, he enters a select group of fewer than twenty-four drivers who have accomplished the feat in the NASCAR Cup Series, underscoring his remarkable durability and endurance. Of the countless competitors in the sport’s history, only a rare few have demonstrated such commitment to longevity on the track.
Exclusive Club of 700 Starts and Johnson’s Standing Among Peers
Jimmie Johnson currently holds 699 career starts, placing him two ahead of Matt Kenseth on the all-time list, and just one race behind Buddy Baker. Once Sunday’s race concludes, Johnson will officially join Baker in the exclusive 700 club, a milestone achieved by only a handful of NASCAR drivers. Kyle Busch stands as the only other currently active full-time driver who has surpassed 700 starts, emphasizing the challenge and rarity of this accomplishment.
His role as driver and part-owner at Legacy Motor Club has helped the team grow and attract sponsorship. Johnson’s presence ensures high visibility for his backers and keeps the organization in the national spotlight.
Clearing Up Rumors About Retirement and Future Plans
Recent social media speculation and videos from Legacy Motor Club ignited rumors that Johnson might be preparing for his final start. Kelly Crandall of RACER.com raised the question during a media session at Charlotte Motor Speedway, as fans wondered if this milestone would mark the end of Johnson’s time behind the wheel.
“No, it’s just great editing, proud of our digital department, doing a great job,”
—Jimmie Johnson, Team Owner and Driver
Johnson firmly dismissed any idea of immediate retirement, emphasizing that his presence on the track is far from finished. Since transitioning from full-time racing after the 2020 season, Johnson has continued to participate as a part-timer, recently finishing third at Daytona earlier in the year. Despite a limited schedule this season, Johnson indicated intent to keep competing in the No. 84 Toyota—and hinted at further starts ahead.
Balancing Racing and Team Development at Legacy Motor Club
As a team owner, Johnson juggles the demands of Legacy Motor Club while planning his racing future. Last season, he raced in nine events and found it stretched the organization’s resources, while this season’s two entries feel too limited for his competitive drive. Johnson outlined ongoing plans to develop talent and sponsor relationships, considering additional starts if they support the overall growth of the organization.
“Last year I ran nine [races], it was a little too much on the organization. This year, I’m at two. Maybe we do a few more, so as we plan for next year, as long as it doesn’t take away from our full-time cars, we hope to run an unchartered vehicle and have me in it and use, use that to develop talent. And also, help develop partnerships and such. So, it’s part of our plan. … Rest assured, there’s more than 700 starts, I’m jumping up and down asking for more races than two.”
—Jimmie Johnson, Team Owner and Driver
Johnson’s remarks assure both fans and sponsors that he sees his ongoing participation as a valuable part of Legacy Motor Club’s overall strategy. He highlighted the importance of using his starts not only for personal achievement, but also to promote sponsorship opportunities, develop future drivers, and ensure the team’s continued success.
Legacy, Impact, and Looking to Future Races
Despite reaching a career milestone few can match, Johnson’s competitive fire remains strong. With plans to race beyond his 700th start, fans can expect him to continue shaping both his own legacy and the trajectory of Legacy Motor Club for years to come. The anticipation for his next starts will keep eyes on Johnson, as his presence continues to energize NASCAR and inspire racers who aspire to match his career endurance.
