Jimmie Johnson plans Legacy Motor Club expansion in NASCAR after reaching his 700th Cup Series start, focusing on both organizational growth and opportunities for emerging drivers. The seven-time NASCAR champion detailed his vision during a recent interview, outlining ambitions for a third car and a stronger driver development pipeline.
Jimmie Johnson Discusses Team Priorities and Personal Commitment
Jimmie Johnson, who began his storied Cup Series journey in 2001 with Hendrick Motorsports, has accumulated 83 wins and multiple accolades over two decades at the sport’s top level. After spending nearly his entire career at Hendrick, Johnson transitioned to a leadership and driving role with Legacy Motor Club in 2023, where he has since made 14 starts.
In a conversation on ‘The RACER Channel’ with former driver Paul Tracy, Johnson reflected on how his role as team co-owner is now his primary focus. He shared the balance between occasional driving duties and organizational leadership, stating:
“The team owner side and our focus and commitment to building a proper NASCAR program is taking all my time and effort. You know I’ll drive the car one more time this year at least, maybe another one later in the year, but it really has to help serve our greater cause as an organization.”
— Jimmie Johnson, Team Owner and Driver
Building on this commitment, Johnson outlined plans for team growth:
“Then just really trying to focus on building the team and getting it right, we also want to expand to a third car so that we can maximize everything within the NASCAR ecosystem. Then from there we need to think of our driver pipeline and how we’re going to bring along future drivers for Legacy Motor Club. Is that Xfinity, Trucks, Trans Am, down to Carding, like, where do we start, and how do we approach that in a smart fashion so that it’s really a large part of our focus right now,”
he concluded. — Jimmie Johnson, Team Owner and Driver
Johnson’s remarks highlight an intent to move beyond current pursuits and lay the groundwork for Legacy Motor Club’s long-term success within the sport.
700th NASCAR Start and On-Track Setbacks
Jimmie Johnson marked his 700th NASCAR start on May 25, 2025, at Charlotte Motor Speedway, joining an elite group of drivers with such longevity. The race, however, was marred by misfortune for the NASCAR legend when an accident on lap 112 cut his day short. Johnson lost control on turn four and was involved in a spin that entangled Connor Zilsch and Cole Custer.
Despite this setback, Johnson’s focus remains on future opportunities for both himself and the organization. This endurance at the highest level continues to reinforce his reputation among NASCAR’s most storied competitors.
Future Aspirations for Additional Races and Team Growth
The ambition for further competitive appearances remains strong for Johnson, who shared with RACER.com’s Kelly Crandall that he does not view his 700th start as the endpoint. Addressing future plans, he said:
“It is part of our plan. We don’t have ’26 picked yet, but rest assured, there (are) more than 700 starts. I’m jumping up and down asking for more races than two.”
— Jimmie Johnson, Team Owner and Driver
Johnson’s path since retiring from full-time stock car racing in 2020 has spanned both NASCAR and the IndyCar Series, adding to his credentials. Recognition for his career achievements continues, as he was included in NASCAR’s Greatest Drivers list and inducted into the Hall of Fame Class of 2024.
Legacy Motor Club’s Expansion and the Road Ahead
As Johnson and Legacy Motor Club pursue expansion, plans for a third car and structured driver development signal a fresh era for the organization. Collaborations with key figures like Paul Tracy and engagement with respected voices such as Kelly Crandall reflect a broadening vision.
With Johnson’s drive to compete in more races and expand opportunities for up-and-coming competitors through Legacy Motor Club, the team is poised to make a lasting impact on NASCAR’s evolving landscape. The integration of experienced leaders and emerging talent could set the tone for the next chapter in the series.
