Legacy Motor Club, where Jimmie Johnson holds a majority stake, has secured a third charter as a result of a settlement with Rick Ware Racing. This development positions the Jimmie Johnson LMC third charter for use beginning in the 2027 NASCAR Cup Series season, marking a significant change for the team’s competitive outlook.
Agreement Brings Closure After Months of Legal Dispute
Legacy Motor Club (LMC) and Rick Ware Racing (RWR) were involved in a months-long legal standoff surrounding the sale of a NASCAR Cup Series charter. The dispute centered on contract terms regarding timing: LMC claimed RWR backed out of a 2026 charter sale, while RWR argued the deal was for 2027. Following negotiations, both organizations reached an agreement, resulting in RWR selling one of its valuable charters to LMC. The terms finalized during the week of September 19, bring much-needed clarity for both teams’ futures.
The charter at the heart of discussions, previously leased by RWR to RFK Racing for Ryan Preece’s No. 60 entry, is likely to remain with RFK throughout upcoming seasons, according to available details. Both LMC and RWR have not fully disclosed every aspect of the new agreement, yet indications suggest the charter’s official transfer and active use by LMC will come after RFK Racing’s two-year lease ends in 2027. The ripple effects of this arrangement are expected to influence team lineups and strategies across involved organizations once the 2027 season begins.
RFK Racing and Team Commitments Remain Steady
RFK Racing has confirmed its commitment to honoring both driver and partner agreements for the No. 60 car through 2026. These assurances mean current obligations and collaborations among RFK Racing, Rick Ware Racing, and Legacy Motor Club will continue as planned up to, but not beyond, the conclusion of the 2026 season.
Leadership and Expansion for Jimmie Johnson and LMC
Jimmie Johnson was appointed majority owner of Legacy Motor Club after Maury Gallagher transitioned to an ambassadorial role with Richard Petty. At 50, Johnson continues to push for growth both on and off the racetrack, having aligned Legacy Motor Club with Knighthead Capital Management—a New York-based investment firm—to support the team’s progress. Johnson has also branched out with his own podcast, “Never Settle,” spotlighting his entrepreneurial energy.
The original target was to activate the team’s third entry as early as 2026, but the final agreement delays this expansion to 2027. Despite the wait, Johnson views the outcome in a positive light, focusing on the benefits of having a clear path forward.
“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 said in a statement. — Jimmie Johnson, Majority Owner of Legacy Motor Club
Current Performance and Recent Results for LMC Drivers
Legacy Motor Club currently fields two full-time entries: John Hunter Nemechek in the No. 42 and Erik Jones in the No. 43. After missing a top-25 finish in the 2024 NASCAR Cup standings, the teams find themselves ranked 22nd and 23rd, respectively. Nemechek has achieved two top-five and eight top-10 finishes so far, with notable runs including fourth place at Darlington and sixth at World Wide Technology Raceway this season. His average finish stands at 18.8—an indication of solid improvement within the team.
On the other side of the garage, Erik Jones secured four top-five and five top-10 results, with his best placement being a third at Darlington. Compared to his previous form, Jones has increased the frequency of his front-running finishes this season. Meanwhile, Jimmie Johnson himself alternates behind the wheel in LMC’s No. 84 Toyota, maintaining a part-time schedule as both owner and occasional driver.
What the Charter Acquisition Means for NASCAR’s Near Future
The impending use of the Jimmie Johnson LMC third charter in 2027 signals not just an expansion for Legacy Motor Club but also a dynamic shift in team strategies and competitive landscape throughout NASCAR. By injecting new investment and leadership under Johnson, the club aims to elevate its stature and push for better results in future seasons. The resolution of the legal dispute with Rick Ware Racing paves the way for a period of renewed focus for all parties, as drivers like John Hunter Nemechek and Erik Jones look to leverage improved resources on their drive up the standings.
With the third charter set to change hands and take effect in 2027, NASCAR fans and competitors alike are watching to see how Legacy Motor Club, RFK Racing, and Rick Ware Racing adapt. The move could influence driver lineups, sponsorship deals, and ultimately, how teams position themselves for championship contention when the new charter is fully deployed.
