Jimmie Johnson, the seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, has publicly addressed the recent Jimmie Johnson LMC lawsuit settlement with Rick Ware Racing following their legal dispute. After a final hearing, both Legacy Motor Club and Rick Ware Racing released a joint statement confirming the confidential terms of an amicable agreement and expressing optimism about focusing on future goals.
The path to this result began when Rick Ware Racing agreed to supply Legacy Motor Club with a charter for the next season. However, obtaining a third charter proved challenging, leading Johnson’s Legacy Motor Club team to file a lawsuit when RWR initially refused to sell a charter for the 2026 Cup Series season. With the recent settlement, both sides have resolved the matter, though specific conditions remain undisclosed.
In an interview with NBC Sports, Johnson explained his satisfaction with the agreement and the importance of moving forward together.
“Reaching a positive outcome was important for everyone involved. I truly respect the effort put forth by Robby Benton and Rick Ware to reach a settlement so we may all focus on our business operations and future goals. I’m glad this is behind us and we can all move forward in unison.”
— Jimmie Johnson, driver and co-owner, Legacy Motor Club
Johnson’s Expansion Plans for Legacy Motor Club
Having secured the third charter from Rick Ware Racing, Johnson’s intentions to expand Legacy Motor Club have moved closer to reality. Currently, LMC operates two full-time cars in the NASCAR Cup Series, with John Hunter Nemechek driving the #42 Toyota Camry XSE and Erik Jones behind the wheel of the #43 Camry. The additional charter enables the team to consider fielding a third car, broadening their roster of drivers.
Despite acquiring another charter, details remain scarce regarding the team’s choice for a third full-time driver. Johnson and his organization have yet to issue any formal announcement about who will fill the new seat. As an alternative to immediate expansion, LMC could opt to lease the charter to other entities, providing the opportunity for financial gains without the burden of creating another racing outfit.
Debating the NextGen Cars: Johnson Shares His Critique
Looking beyond legal matters, Johnson has also shared his thoughts on broader technical topics impacting the sport. During a podcast discussion in August 2025 with 2014 NASCAR Cup Series champion Kevin Harvick, Johnson highlighted his concerns about the seventh-generation, or NextGen, cars. He believes that improvements are necessary from car manufacturers to enhance performance and entertainment value.
The Gen-7 vehicles, launched at the 2022 Daytona 500, feature a five-speed sequential gearbox alongside a powerful 5.86-liter V8, weighing around 3,400 pounds with driver and fuel included. Despite these advancements, Johnson remains unconvinced about their handling abilities, particularly citing the lack of side force and design issues that impact how the cars drive and present on track.
“I would like to see some changes. You know, I think a car that gains side force and yaw is a better car, one that drives better, more interesting, puts on a better show. This car does not do that. But to make those changes in the way you’ll have to, all three OEMs have to submit wind tunnel time, all the expenses that go with it. I know it’s a slow-moving machine.” [25:00 onwards]
— Jimmie Johnson, driver and co-owner, Legacy Motor Club
Johnson has hands-on experience with these NextGen cars, competing as a part-time driver for Legacy Motor Club in 14 races so far, including securing a notable third-place finish at the Daytona 500 this season.
What Lies Ahead for Johnson, Legacy Motor Club, and NASCAR
The Jimmie Johnson LMC lawsuit settlement provides much-needed stability for Johnson and Legacy Motor Club, allowing their focus to return to competitive development and strategic planning. With ongoing debates about NextGen car regulations and looming decisions about future drivers, the team faces a pivotal chapter that could influence its traction in the coming NASCAR seasons.
Figures like Erik Jones and John Hunter Nemechek continue to play vital roles within the organization, while Johnson’s own future in part-time competition and team leadership remains of interest to fans and the racing community. As changes in car design and team structure unfold, Johnson, as well as other top drivers such as Kyle Larson, Ryan Blaney, and Denny Hamlin, will likely shape the course of the sport both on and off the track.
