Jimmie Johnson is set to make a highly anticipated return to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, marking his first appearance in the division since 2008. The San Diego event, which takes place at Naval Base Coronado, will see Johnson participate not only in the Truck Series but also in the Cup Series, as NASCAR brings a landmark weekend to the city.
Johnson’s Dual Entry for San Diego’s Groundbreaking NASCAR Weekend
FOX Sports’ Bob Pockrass reported that Jimmie Johnson will be driving for TRICON Garage in San Diego, with sponsorship from Carvana. This race marks just his second-ever start in the Truck Series, adding extra excitement to the event. NASCAR’s decision to let drivers compete in multiple national series during the San Diego weekend, a first for the venue, draws additional attention, as previous restrictions might have limited driver participation across series.
NASCAR heads to Naval Base Coronado as part of a military appreciation weekend, celebrating the region’s connection to the armed forces and historic milestones like the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Navy. The unique street course event, scheduled for June 19-21 in 2026 over Father’s Day weekend, is expected to draw major crowds and significant media coverage, highlighting San Diego’s role as both a sporting and military hub.
Jimmie Johnson’s Deep Ties to San Diego Inspire Emotional Homecoming
For Johnson, the San Diego NASCAR weekend is more than just another race. Having grown up just miles from the city, returning as a competitor is a dream realized.
“Excited to announce I’ll be participating in the inaugural [NASCAR San Diego] race in my home state next June!”
– Jimmie Johnson, via Twitter.
He has described racing in San Diego as a “bucket-list” experience, noting his lifelong connection to the area and the sport. Johnson’s participation with Carvana and LEGACY MOTOR CLUB carries additional personal resonance, as he will be able to compete in front of his community, family, friends, and the military audience, making this a “full-circle” moment in his career.
“Growing up just miles from San Diego, I dreamed about racing here in a NASCAR vehicle someday, but I never thought it would be possible,”
Jimmie Johnson said in a press release. “I just came to the realization that there would be no way NASCAR could race in that city – as there would be nowhere to put a track. So, it’s just mind-blowing to me that NASCAR made this a reality.
“To come back home, compete in front of my community, the military, my family, and friends, and do it with Carvana and LEGACY MOTOR CLUB, this is one of those full-circle experiences I will never forget. It’s a lifelong dream.”
– Jimmie Johnson
NASCAR’s All-Series Showcase and Military Tribute
NASCAR’s event at San Diego will bring together all three national series—the Cup Series, Xfinity, and Truck Series—making the Naval Base Coronado venue the center of American stock car racing for the weekend. The races coincide with the city’s commemoration of the U.S. Navy’s 250th anniversary, strengthening the event’s emphasis on military appreciation and local heritage. Johnson’s entry in both the Truck and Cup Series amplifies the spotlight on the weekend, which has already gained traction as a must-see sporting event for fans.
Carvana will serve as the primary sponsor for Johnson’s No. 84 Toyota Camry XSE, with a special paint scheme set to be unveiled ahead of the event, adding to the anticipation among racing enthusiasts and San Diego locals alike.
Significance of Johnson’s Participation and What Lies Ahead
Jimmie Johnson’s decision to race at San Diego underscores not just his personal roots, but also NASCAR’s commitment to expanding into new venues with strong cultural and historical ties. The weekend’s dual significance as both a motorsport showcase and a military tribute has elevated expectations for attendance and fan engagement. As Johnson prepares for his emotional homecoming, San Diego gears up to host a NASCAR event that blends sporting history, personal achievement, and a salute to the nation’s servicemembers. Racing fans and the local community are counting down the days until NASCAR arrives at Naval Base Coronado for a truly memorable event, with Jimmie Johnson’s San Diego NASCAR comeback at its heart.
Jimmie Johnson to drive Tricon No. 1 truck at San Diego. He also is doing Cup race. So appears NASCAR will allow drivers to do more than one series at San Diego (there was question on whether they'd limit drivers to series they get points in to avoid buying rides for track time)
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) January 8, 2026
Going back to Cali 🤙
Excited to announce I’ll be participating in the inaugural @NASCARSanDiego race in my home state next June!
Read More: https://t.co/2hTIQP2kEO pic.twitter.com/51Q8zzxzX2
— Jimmie Johnson (@JimmieJohnson) November 5, 2025
