Legacy Motor Club, led by Jimmie Johnson, and Rick Ware Racing have concluded a protracted dispute regarding a NASCAR Cup Series charter, resolving a series of lawsuits and disagreements heading into the 2026 season. The Jimmie Johnson charter sale settlement ensures that Legacy Motor Club secures a charter from Rick Ware Racing, ending months of uncertainty for both organizations.
Background and Development of the Charter Sale Dispute
The dispute originated when Legacy Motor Club announced plans to purchase a Cup Series charter from Rick Ware Racing. The charter in question, originally Charter No. 27, had been leased by RWR to RFK Racing. Conflicting claims arose, with RWR insisting the transaction was intended for 2027 instead of 2026, and further contending that it was only for No. 36, which Legacy already controlled.
Tensions increased as Spire Motorsports’ former owner, T.J. Puchyr, acquired a stake in Rick Ware Racing and became involved in the charter negotiations. This acquisition further complicated the process and put the charter transfer on hold while Legacy Motor Club and Rick Ware Racing attempted to resolve lingering contractual and ownership questions about the charters in question.
Settlement Brings Clarity for Both Teams
After several legal challenges, a reported settlement was reached. The specific terms remain confidential, but it is confirmed Rick Ware Racing will sell and transfer a Cup Series charter to Legacy Motor Club. Jimmie Johnson publicly acknowledged the end of the legal matter, spotlighting the collaborative effort required to finalize the agreement.
Reaching a positive outcome was truly 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, as reported by motorsport.com.
With the settlement in place, both organizations are now positioned to shift their focus back to racing. Jimmie Johnson emphasized respect for Robby Benton and Rick Ware, underscoring the shared desire to operate with clarity and cooperation moving forward in the sport.
Statements from Rick Ware on Final Agreement
Prior to the agreement, Jimmie Johnson had filed lawsuits against Rick Ware Racing, with court proceedings slated for January 2026. The impending legal process risked causing ongoing disruptions for Legacy Motor Club’s operational planning and charter eligibility for the upcoming year. Ultimately, Rick Ware Racing and Legacy Motor Club came to terms before trial proceedings were necessary.
Rick Ware described the resolution as mutually beneficial, reinforcing optimism for the future direction of both racing teams and their preparations for the next seasons.
I met with both Jimmie (Johnson) and Cal Wells recently and we came to an agreement to sell and transfer a charter from RWR to LEGACY MOTOR CLUB, I believe we landed in a mutually beneficial place for both teams and the result will be a clear path forward for us all. I look forward to putting all of our focus on finishing the 2025 season strong.
Rick Ware, as reported by Jayski
The decision to settle not only averts a prolonged courtroom battle but allows Rick Ware Racing to proceed with resolving other internal matters, such as ownership changes involving T.J. Puchyr. It also lets the organization focus on completing a successful 2025 season while exploring new possibilities in NASCAR.
Implications for Legacy Motor Club and Rick Ware Racing
Now that Legacy Motor Club has secured its charter for the 2026 season, team owner Jimmie Johnson can direct energy toward achieving competitive success with a clear administrative path. The end of the charter dispute enables Legacy Motor Club’s leadership, including Johnson and Cal Wells, to pursue their strategic goals on and off the racetrack.
Rick Ware Racing will continue addressing its sale discussions and management transitions, benefitting from the reduced distraction the settlement brings. With the charter issue resolved, the future for both teams appears more stable, paving the way for renewed rivalries and opportunities in upcoming seasons for both organizations, as well as the wider NASCAR community.
The Jimmie Johnson charter sale settlement marks an important turning point for both Legacy Motor Club and Rick Ware Racing, concluding a public and high-stakes negotiation. With the focus now shifting back to racing and development, stakeholders across the sport—including key figures like Robby Benton and T.J. Puchyr—can anticipate a more straightforward path toward their objectives.
