Jimmie Johnson, the seven-time Cup Series champion, has candidly discussed the challenges he faced with his NASCAR retirement, which marked the end of an incredible two-decade run. As the motorsports icon wrapped up his full-time career in 2020 with a top-5 finish at Phoenix Raceway, his reflections revealed the deep emotional impact of leaving the sport that defined his life.
A Lifetime Dedicated to Racing
Motorsport has been at the heart of Johnson’s journey since childhood. Reports indicate that he began racing motorbikes as early as 1980, when he was just four, creating a lifelong passion that would later translate into unprecedented NASCAR success. The decision to retire was far from easy for Johnson, considering how racing had shaped his identity and career.
The Struggle to Step Away From NASCAR
When Johnson completed his final season as a full-time Cup Series racer in 2020, he openly shared with the press just how difficult it was to reach his decision. He spoke about the heavy emotions he experienced as he made up his mind and discussed it first with his family and then with Rick Hendrick, the owner of Hendrick Motorsports.
“For me, the hardest point was about this time last year [2019] when thoughts were heavy on my mind. And I was going to make the decision and made the decision to myself and my family, then had to go to Rick’s house and talk that through with Mr. Hendrick. So that point in time was probably the most emotional and most difficult,”
Johnson had told the press.
Fond Memories and Reflections on a Storied Career
Embracing his final campaign, Johnson chose to reflect on his racing achievements with satisfaction, savoring every remaining moment on the track. His last race, held at Phoenix, was especially significant as it allowed him to exit the series feeling both accomplished and content.
“It was nice to be competitive out there and run the top 5, finish in the top 5, but my bucket is full. NASCAR has been so wonderful for me. This journey has been more than I could have ever dreamed of, expected, or hoped for,”
added Johnson, who was 45 at the time.
Though the last years of his career did not mirror the dominance of earlier seasons, Johnson remained grateful for the opportunity to race alongside top talent. His final championship win arrived in 2016, followed by a 10th place finish in 2017, 14th in 2018, and 18th in both 2019 and 2020, with the renowned Chad Knaus serving as his crew chief throughout these years. Johnson’s closing statements after his last race encapsulated the blend of pride and emotion he felt.
“All those emotions and all that pride rolled up into just a huge smile today walking out on the grid,”
he said.
A Continuing Presence in Motorsports
Despite retiring from full-time racing, Jimmie Johnson has maintained a strong connection to NASCAR. In 2023, he became a co-owner of Legacy Motor Club, further cementing his influence in the sport. Continuing his competitive spirit, Johnson made occasional appearances on the circuit and achieved an impressive third-place finish at the 2025 Daytona 500 while driving the No. 84 Toyota Camry XSE.
Leaving the Cup Series was undoubtedly a painful decision for Johnson, but his ongoing involvement as a team owner and driver highlights his enduring bond with the racing community. As he continues to shape the sport from new angles, Johnson’s journey stands as a testament to his passion, resilience, and legacy within NASCAR.
