Jimmie Johnson returns to United States after spending two years abroad, and he is committed to preserving a newfound family routine established during his time in London. The Legacy Motor Club co-owner, now back on home soil, opened up about how this change could shape his life both personally and professionally as he resumes his dual roles in American motorsports.
Jimmie Johnson’s Life in London: A Transformative Experience
When Jimmie Johnson and his family decided to move from the United States to London, United Kingdom, the original intention was to stay for only one year, a response to the tragic passing of his in-laws in 2023. However, life overseas extended for an additional year, offering Johnson and his wife Chani a unique and unexpected gift. For the first time in his adult life, Johnson noted that he and Chani had several uninterrupted hours to themselves each morning before any professional responsibilities began on the East Coast.
Johnson reflected on these precious hours, sharing:
“So, up get the kids to school and then from there, we had time. I had time to think. I had time to train. I had time to go to breakfast with my wife. We had ‘us’ time. And that is something I so desperately hope we can hang on to being back here. I think that was a real ‘aha’ moment for us.”
—Jimmie Johnson, Legacy Motor Club co-owner
This period of calm and routine helped Johnson adjust from the relentless demands of a high-performance race car driver to life as a team owner, shaping his perspective and priorities for the future.
Transitioning from Racing Star to Team Leader
The relocation became a turning point for Johnson, allowing him to transition smoothly into his role as a race car team owner. He spoke about his evolving focus:
“I really embraced this next opportunity I have in trying to build a race team and build a brand and the layers that go with that,”
Johnson stated. —Jimmie Johnson, Legacy Motor Club co-owner
While he remains intensely competitive, he described a clear shift in his priorities away from solely personal achievements to a broader dedication to team and brand development. Johnson acknowledged that his energies are now invested in nurturing a younger generation of drivers and staff, a change that came with new challenges and personal growth.
“I’m still as competitive, but it’s interesting. My focus has shifted in a different area.”
—Jimmie Johnson, Legacy Motor Club co-owner
The Path Forward: Racing Ambitions and Legacy Building
Though teamwork and leadership sit at the core of Johnson’s current responsibilities, his passion for racing remains. Since becoming a team owner, Johnson has continued to step into the driver’s seat whenever sponsorship opportunities arise. Speaking to NBC Sports, he shared ambitions for Legacy Motor Club—currently operating with two charters—to potentially add a third. Johnson made it clear that more involvement on the track is part of his vision.
He explained,
“We’re hopeful to have a third charter. Need to start building a team. There’s a chance that I run more races next year if we have a third charter on the docket and have a sponsor to bring along, team members to groom, a crew chief to get reps, a driver to get reps.”
—Jimmie Johnson, Legacy Motor Club co-owner
This vision points toward a period of expansion, with a sharper focus on mentoring team members, developing organizational talent, and ensuring a sustainable competitive edge. With renewed energy and valuable habits gained overseas, Johnson is optimistic about balancing his family routine with his leadership in American motorsports.
Looking Ahead: Jimmie Johnson’s Next Chapter in the United States
Now that Jimmie Johnson returns to United States, he is determined to maintain the family-centered practices established in London as he navigates the shifting landscape of his career. As team owner of Legacy Motor Club, his role now spans racing, coaching, and business development, with the hopes of extending his influence both on and off the track. Johnson’s story resonates with anyone managing change, demonstrating how personal growth can unlock new professional horizons while preserving the values that matter most.
