Jimmie Johnson has voiced strong support for NASCAR’s latest decision to reinstate the Chase championship format, expressing optimism about how this change could positively impact his Legacy Motor Club team. As the 2026 season approaches, Johnson believes the new Jimmie Johnson NASCAR championship format brings renewed opportunities for both his drivers and the wider racing community.
NASCAR Revisits the Chase Format After Widespread Debate
The structure of NASCAR’s championship has long been a subject of heated conversation among fans and professionals alike. This broad debate prompted the organization to revive the Chase format, giving rise to both enthusiasm and high expectations. Many in the NASCAR community, including Jimmie Johnson, have highlighted the potential of this return to influence competition in new ways. Johnson, who acts as owner of Legacy Motor Club, shared how this adjustment could help his team recover from recent challenges.
Recently, Legacy MC has endured a difficult run. Team drivers John Hunter Nemechek and Erik Jones finished 24th and 25th respectively during the latest season, despite achieving a few top-five results. These outcomes were far from what the team was striving for, especially given such a turbulent year. Johnson stressed the significance of a format that could reward consistency and strong finishes throughout the racing calendar.
Johnson Sees Opportunity in Format Overhaul
The impending change in the championship format holds promise for Legacy MC’s ambitions. The revival of the Chase allows for a reset that could see Johnson’s drivers contend for improved positions in the standings as soon as 2026. Acknowledging his squad’s struggle to maintain momentum close to playoff time, Johnson suggested that the new approach may enable teams who display steady, top-10 performances to shine more effectively.
“We were putting ourselves in a position at times to stretch, especially as we got closer to the playoffs, that window and the cutoff that was coming. And we can get back into an area where we think we’re the strongest, and that’s kind of locking down those top 10s and being consistent week in and week out. So, I do feel like it’s better for us, but we’ll go racing and see where it lands.
Jimmie Johnson said via nascar.com.”
Johnson noted that while the new format seems tailored to his team’s strengths, the ultimate measure will be how Legacy Motor Club performs once competition begins under the new structure. He remains optimistic that with renewed consistency, Legacy MC will find itself contending at a higher level.
Praise for NASCAR’s Willingness to Take Bold Action
Many expected little movement away from NASCAR’s previous winner-take-all model, but officials defied those predictions by bringing in sweeping reform. Recognition from notable industry figures such as Denny Hamlin and Mark Martin, both advocates for change, underscored the magnitude of the decision. Jimmie Johnson commended NASCAR for taking decisive action and responding to widespread calls for an updated approach to the championship.
“Hats off to NASCAR for listening, being brave again, and making another big decision. I’m sure some will like it, some will hate it, and some won’t care. It’s just kind of the way it goes.
Jimmie Johnson noted.”
Johnson observed that changes of this scale tend to evoke mixed reactions, with some in the community applauding the boldness while others remain skeptical. Regardless, he welcomed the shift, emphasizing that such evolution is integral to keeping the sport compelling and reflective of its passionate fan base.
Anticipation Builds for the 2026 Season Debut
The excitement is building as the start of the 2026 NASCAR season draws near. Daytona International Speedway will host the initial event, promising a thrilling opener in the wake of these significant changes. For teams like Legacy Motor Club, the revamped championship scenario could mark a turning point. Those invested in NASCAR—from veteran owners like Johnson to emerging drivers—are preparing for a season that may redefine strategies and narratives across the board.
Looking ahead, many observers anticipate that the adjustments unveiled for the upcoming year will further enhance competition within America’s most storied stock car series. With its willingness to listen to community input and enact substantial reforms, NASCAR has set the stage for a compelling and unpredictable 2026 campaign.
