Jimmie Johnson has officially clinched his place in the 2026 Daytona 500 after Legacy Motor Club successfully secured an open exemption provisional for him, ensuring his No. 84 Toyota Camry will be on the starting grid. This move follows intense debate over NASCAR’s approach to entries and now gives Johnson, a seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, another chance at Daytona glory, spotlighting the significance of securing a Jimmie Johnson Daytona 500 spot amid changing race entry rules.
Back in 2025, NASCAR’s introduction of the Open Exemption Provisional (OEP) stirred considerable controversy. The OEP sought to attract prominent racing figures from outside NASCAR, and when IndyCar veteran Helio Castroneves used it for his Trackhouse Racing debut, many fans were unsettled. Their frustration grew when Johnson—a celebrated Cup Series icon—was forced to qualify for the event while drivers from other disciplines gained guaranteed access. The adjustment did not just concern Johnson’s prospects but also reduced the already limited spots available for other open entries, fueling discontent within the racing community and among teams.
NASCAR Adjusts Entry Rules and Grants Johnson a Place
Mounting concerns from fans and racing teams prompted NASCAR to revisit its policy for the 2026 event. To address perceived inequities, officials decided to expand the field to 41 cars for Daytona 500 race week, thereby preserving an equitable opportunity for open entries. In a pivotal move, Legacy Motor Club announced it would utilize its OEP for Johnson, confirming his automatic entry into the main event. However, this guaranteed entry comes with a tradeoff: Johnson will not be eligible to claim any portion of the prize money for the race.
“Jimmie Johnson has guaranteed spot in Daytona 500. Legacy applied for and has been granted the ‘open exemption provisional’ … so Johnson is guaranteed spot and field will be 41 cars. Johnson won’t get purse $. Where he starts, I’d expect depends on finish in duels.”
— Bob Pockrass, Reporter on X
This arrangement allows Johnson to sidestep the uncertainty of qualifying, setting the stage for a focused pursuit of his long-awaited 84th career win. After retiring in 2020 with 83 NASCAR Cup Series victories, Johnson spent two years in IndyCar as an owner-driver before returning with a clear goal: to claim that elusive 84th victory. As Johnson re-enters the Daytona spotlight, confidence runs high within his Legacy Motor Club crew that their efforts can deliver the right car for this historic bid.
“That was a very nice day [Daytona]. I hope to have more shots [at that]. We don’t really speak of the podiums in our industry but to finish third and essentially be on the podium was an incredible opportunity. Man, the 84th win, I wanna believe that opportunity is there one way shape or another. To be in the 84 car chasing that 84th win, I really would like to tick that box.”
— Jimmie Johnson, via On3.com
Seven Rivals Compete for Remaining Entries at Daytona
With Johnson among the 37 drivers locked into the 2026 Daytona 500, the battle intensifies for the final four positions in the starting lineup. Seven drivers—some of whom are yet to be officially announced, with Berd Motorsports and RCR still finalizing entries—will be vying for these coveted spots. The open entry list is headlined by Justin Allgaier, a champion from NASCAR’s second division who represents JR Motorsport, and Corey Heim, reigning Truck Series champion, set to compete for 23XI Racing. Both are widely regarded as strong contenders, with fast cars and substantial racing pedigree behind them.
In addition to these standouts, three other seasoned drivers enter the fray: Casey Mears, taking the wheel for Garage 66; the enduring BJ McLeod with Live Fast Motorsports; and veteran JJ Yeley who will represent NY Racing. Given McLeod’s and Yeley’s deep experience, they are expected to be formidable competitors in this tense qualifying phase, all seeking their chance to line up alongside racing luminaries like Johnson.
What Johnson’s Daytona Return Means for NASCAR
The allocation of an open exemption provisional to Johnson marks a significant moment for NASCAR and long-time fans of the Daytona 500. The racing community’s response to last year’s policies was both passionate and divisive, underscoring how deeply supporters value the legacies of drivers such as Johnson. By adapting the entry rules and guaranteeing a slot for Johnson’s No. 84 car, NASCAR hopes to balance inclusivity for high-profile crossover talents like Helio Castroneves, while ensuring legends of the Cup Series get fair opportunity to compete in marquee events.
As the 2026 Daytona 500 approaches, Johnson’s pursuit of his 84th victory adds an emotional charge to the race narrative. With seven drivers battling over the final four slots, the event promises heightened drama and intense on-track competition. For NASCAR and its followers, Johnson’s inclusion will not only boost the profile of the race but also reaffirm the enduring appeal of its most celebrated champions.
Jimmie Johnson has guaranteed spot in Daytona 500. Legacy applied for and has been granted the "open exemption provisional" … so Johnson is guaranteed spot and field will be 41 cars. Johnson won't get purse $. Where he starts I'd expect depends on finish in duels. @NASCARONFOX
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) January 7, 2026
