Jimmie Johnson celebrates 700th NASCAR Cup Series start with Tom Brady-gifted helmet, marking a major milestone at Charlotte Motor Speedway after an energetic appearance at the Indianapolis 500 with the legendary quarterback. The seven-time champion showcased his enduring legacy and the special NFL connection during one of the year’s biggest motorsports events.
Legendary Collaboration at the Indy 500
At the 2025 Indianapolis 500, Jimmie Johnson and Tom Brady joined forces for a widely anticipated pre-race event. Johnson, recognized as a motorsports legend, drove the ceremonial two-seated IndyCar called the Fastest Seat in Sports, with Brady riding as his passenger. This collaboration added a layer of excitement to the crown jewel event on the motorsports calendar, as fans from both NASCAR and the NFL watched the pair take center stage in Indianapolis.
Symbolic Gift for a Historic Milestone
Before heading to Charlotte for his landmark 700th NASCAR Cup Series start, Johnson received and proudly wore a helmet gifted by Tom Brady. Documenting the moment, Johnson shared a video on social media, featuring the special helmet and capturing his excitement before boarding a private jet for Charlotte Motor Speedway. The helmet became a symbol of mutual respect between two athletes who have each reached the pinnacle of their respective sports. As Johnson prepared for the Coca-Cola 600, the legendary driver underscored the significance of the day with his post: “Off to Charlotte! LET’S GO!”
Reflecting on a Storied Racing Career
Johnson’s career stands as one of the most decorated in NASCAR history. Competing part-time for his own Legacy Motor Club in the #84 car, the driver has amassed seven Cup Series titles. His historic streak with Hendrick Motorsports from 2006 to 2010—winning five championships in a row—remains unmatched in the modern era of the sport. Over 699 Cup Series starts, he has collected 83 race victories, with triumphs at famed races like the Daytona 500, Brickyard 400, Coca-Cola 600, and Southern 500. Johnson first raced at Charlotte Motor Speedway in 2001, returning now to reach this impressive milestone at the same venue.
Building Connections Beyond the Track
Johnson also reflected on his growing friendship with Tom Brady, especially as both move into business and personal ventures after their legendary athletic careers. Their collaboration at the Indy 500 marked more than just a spectacle; it represented a crossover of enduring champions navigating life after sports. Johnson shared his perspective on their evolving relationship:
“It is great to finally connect and hang out. What a stellar guy. We’ve had a few opportunities to connect, just been trying to build a relationship, and we have so much in common in what we are trying to do in this next phase of life. It’s wild how many synergies and conversations we have had around how we take our athletic prowess and try and convert that into some business sense.”
—Jimmie Johnson, NASCAR driver
As Brady taps into ventures like opening the fifth CardVault sports collectibles store in East Hampton, both icons are finding ways to channel the drive and determination that led them to greatness on the field and track into new endeavors. Their shared experiences and public friendship have created a compelling narrative for fans across sports.
A Record Start at Charlotte and What Lies Ahead
Now focused on his 700th start at the Coca-Cola 600, Johnson’s journey underscores more than just a number; it highlights persistence, adaptability, and a continued passion for racing. He remains an inspiration for fellow drivers and fans, exemplifying how achievements on the track can translate into meaningful post-competition efforts. The celebratory gesture from Tom Brady punctuates this milestone, reflecting the mutual admiration that champions share, and setting the stage for Johnson’s next chapter both within and outside the world of motorsports.
