Jimmie Johnson, a seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and current Legacy Motor Club co-owner, has publicly outlined his complete NASCAR retirement plan, setting expectations for fans and the sport. He confirmed that his last race as a driver will be the 2027 Daytona 500, wrapping up a distinguished career after several more appearances, with a focus keyword on his Jimmie Johnson NASCAR retirement plan.
Johnson Signals End of Driving Career After 2027 Daytona 500
Six years after his nineteenth full season in the NASCAR Cup Series, Johnson announced that he will step away from all competition following the 2027 Daytona 500. His next entry in the historic event will be his twenty-third overall, continuing his tenure as a part-time driver and co-owner for Legacy Motor Club. Johnson, a two-time winner of what is often called the Great American Race, has secured a starting position for this year’s event through the Open Exemption Provisional, beginning the race from 31st position.
Although there was initial speculation regarding Johnson’s possible retirement after the 2025 season—since only the Daytona 500 and Coca-Cola 600 were confirmed on his schedule, bringing his career total to 700 starts—he dismissed these rumors by sharing future plans. Johnson disclosed that he will also participate in the inaugural street race at Naval Base Coronado, close to his hometown of El Cajon, California. This move put to rest suggestions that the local race could be his career finale.
Legacy Motor Club and Team Ownership in Focus
After revealing his long-term plan, Johnson clarified that he will not be making any additional Cup Series starts after the 2027 Daytona 500, scheduled for Sunday, February 21, 2027. Instead, he plans to concentrate on growing Legacy Motor Club into a leading organization within the sport.
“Ending a chapter to focus on building a world class organization in @LEGACYMotorClub. Next February, I’ll make my final start in the Cup Series in Daytona.”
— Jimmie Johnson, co-owner and driver
Since returning to NASCAR in 2023 after competing in the NTT IndyCar Series, Johnson has made select appearances, including races at Charlotte Motor Speedway and the Daytona 500. He has not yet finalized his participation in the Coca-Cola 600 for this year, despite having raced at Charlotte since his NASCAR return. Nevertheless, his intention is clear: no matter how many races he enters in 2026, the 2027 Daytona 500 will be his final Cup event.
Fan Reactions and What’s Next
Johnson’s detailed retirement timeline closes a period of conjecture regarding his future, as fans debated whether milestone events—like reaching 700 starts or racing near his California roots—would mark his farewell. Instead, it will be Daytona, an iconic stage for NASCAR, that hosts his last run as a Cup Series driver.
His transition from driver to full-time team owner signals a shift in focus for both Johnson and Legacy Motor Club. Supporters are now anticipating his final Cup races, especially the high-profile Daytona 500 appearances scheduled prior to his exit. The impact of his official retirement will resonate throughout the NASCAR Cup Series and among a new generation of drivers now emerging in the sport.
Ending a chapter to focus on building a world class organization in @LEGACYMotorClub. Next February, I’ll make my final start in the Cup Series in Daytona. pic.twitter.com/XCXNWm4PS8
— Jimmie Johnson (@JimmieJohnson) February 14, 2026
