Jimmie Johnson has credited Rick Hendrick‘s influence on his team ownership journey as he continues to lead Legacy Motor Club in the NASCAR Cup Series. Since transitioning from legendary driver to owner, Johnson has relied on the values and culture instilled in him during his time at Hendrick Motorsports, emphasizing their impact on his leadership style and vision.
The Hendrick Motorsports Foundation Shapes Johnson’s Approach
After stepping away from racing in 2020, Johnson’s return to NASCAR surprised many, as he embraced the challenge of running his own team rather than simply returning as a driver or commentator. Now co-owner of Legacy Motor Club, Johnson operates with a foundation deeply shaped by his years at Hendrick Motorsports. The ethos and professionalism of HMS legends, especially Rick Hendrick and Jeff Gordon, have been core to Johnson’s transition into leadership.
On NASCAR’s Inside the Race podcast with Steve Letarte, Johnson looked back at his formative experiences at HMS, recounting how relationships with figures such as Chad Knaus, Randy Dorton, and Gordon shaped his career. Johnson shared:
“We all have our own styles and personalities, and going to work for Hendrick Motorsports, that is who I aspired to be. That was kind of my foundation and DNA as an individual. And so to go into that system and work for Mr. Hendrick, to work alongside yourself, Jeff Gordon… Randy Dorton, and we can go on and on through the great names and Chad Canals. They were my people. And I’m so fortunate,” said Johsnon (5:08 onwards) —Jimmie Johnson, Team Owner
Johnson’s partnership with these figures created a culture of shared purpose and mutual respect, helping the No. 48 team secure seven Cup titles and 83 race victories over two decades. The consistent work ethic, technical brilliance, and camaraderie he experienced at HMS laid the groundwork for the philosophy he now implements at Legacy Motor Club. Regarding his leadership model, Johnson added:
“The work ethic and dedication that is… such an intricate part of Hendrick Motorsports… So, being in that system and being around it has really shown me the way. We’re not there yet, but I am surrounding myself with people that think that same way and still want to put morals first and then work your guts out after that. And that’s the company I’m trying to build,” added Johnson. (6:14 onwards) —Jimmie Johnson, Team Owner
Johnson officially entered ownership in late 2022 by purchasing a stake in Petty GMS with Maury Gallagher. After rebranding to Legacy Motor Club in 2023, Johnson became the majority stakeholder by early 2025, aiming to replicate the winning culture and high standards he experienced as a driver for Hendrick Motorsports.
Building Legacy Motor Club With Respect for Origins
Legacy Motor Club operates two full-time entries in the NASCAR Cup Series: John Hunter Nemechek pilots the No. 42, while Erik Jones drives the No. 43. Under Johnson’s stewardship, the team has expanded both its technical partnerships and its operations, making a notable manufacturing shift from Chevrolet to Toyota. This transition marked a significant change for Johnson, whose racing career had strong Chevrolet ties.
Before officially departing Hendrick Motorsports, Johnson made sure to honor his mentorship with Rick Hendrick. During the interview with Steve Letarte, Johnson revealed he personally discussed his move with Hendrick:
“I’ve been waiting for somebody to ask me this all these years and no one has… I went and sat down with him. Went and asked him if it was a problem. And he’s like, ‘I’m not going to hold you back. Of course, I’d rather you be in our colors,” Johnson mentioned (9:47 onwards) —Jimmie Johnson, Team Owner
Johnson’s respect for his roots was matched by Hendrick’s support, granting him the freedom to shape a new identity in the sport. Even as he launched the rebranded team, Johnson maintained the philosophy of gathering the right people—mirroring the method that Rick Hendrick and the HMS legends have long prioritized.
Sponsorship Expansion and Racing Legacy
Legacy Motor Club’s growth under Johnson’s direction includes securing high-profile sponsorships from companies such as Carvana, Pye-Barker Fire & Safety, and Dollar Tree. Carvana, well-known for supporting Johnson during his IndyCar career, continued its backing as he took on team ownership. The move to Toyota opened new opportunities for technical development and competitive advancement, an important step for Legacy in today’s racing landscape.
Balancing his executive responsibilities, Jimmie Johnson has occasionally competed behind the wheel, including at high-profile events like the 2025 Daytona 500 and the Coca-Cola 600. These appearances, highlighted by Johnson’s 700th Cup Series start, underscore his ongoing commitment to NASCAR and to the Legacy brand.
The Broader Impact of Hendrick’s Mentorship
Rick Hendrick’s influence on Jimmie Johnson’s team ownership journey extends beyond technical lessons. It is expressed in the values, culture, and leadership approach Johnson brings to Legacy Motor Club. As he builds his team by surrounding himself with driven, like-minded teammates and partners, Johnson’s story is a testament to the power of mentorship and the enduring legacy of great organizations.
The broader NASCAR community will watch to see how Legacy Motor Club grows and how Johnson’s leadership, rooted in the Hendrick-era philosophy, shapes the next chapter for both himself and his team. With support from figures like Maury Gallagher, John Hunter Nemechek, Erik Jones, and loyal sponsors, the program continues to evolve, aiming to uphold the industry standards defined by the Hendrick Motorsports dynasty.
