Jimmie Johnson, the seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and prominent team owner, has announced he will step into a unique position as crew chief for Dario Franchitti at the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on February 28, 2026. This new Jimmie Johnson crew chief role highlights the friendship and professional bond between two motorsport legends as they prepare for the OnlyBulls Green Flag 150.
Franchitti Returns to Stock Car Racing with Johnson on the Pit Box
Dario Franchitti, renowned for his four IndyCar Series championships and three Indianapolis 500 victories, is making his way back to stock car racing after more than a decade away. In the 2026 season, Franchitti will drive the #1 Toyota truck for Tricon Garage, marking his first Craftsman Truck Series appearance since finishing 33rd at Martinsville Speedway in 2007. This return comes after years distinguishing himself in open-wheel racing and builds on a shared history with Johnson in both NASCAR and IndyCar competition.
Johnson shared his excitement about the reunion and the chance to serve in this unconventional pit lane role. Speaking about their longtime friendship and teamwork, Johnson said:
“Dario and I’s friendship is 20 or 30 years deep. I talked him into driving a truck, and he said, ‘If I’m driving, I need you on the box.’ So I’ll be on the box doing my best to not mess him up.”
– Jimmie Johnson, Champion Driver and Team Owner
Johnson further expressed anticipation for the upcoming race, noting the resources at Tricon Garage:
“I’m super excited; Tricon has incredible equipment. They’ve put together a really nice opportunity for us to run Dario.”
– Jimmie Johnson, Champion Driver and Team Owner
The famed St. Petersburg street circuit promises a competitive challenge as both drivers bring their veteran expertise to this special event. The OnlyBulls Green Flag 150, covering 80 laps, will be broadcast live at noon Eastern Time on FOX, NASCAR Racing, and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, putting this unique crew chief-driver combination in the spotlight.
Johnson Set for Additional High-Profile Appearances in 2026
Jimmie Johnson isn’t limiting his 2026 ambitions to the St. Petersburg race. The former Hendrick Motorsports driver has confirmed a return to the Cup Series, competing at San Diego’s Naval Base Coronado. This historic event, celebrating the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Navy in June 2026, marks NASCAR’s first points-paying race on the demanding 3.4-mile street circuit at the base.
The event will feature all three major NASCAR series across a three-day weekend, with fans experiencing the intricate 16-turn layout designed for stock car racing. Johnson expressed personal excitement for racing in his hometown, stating:
“Growing up just miles from San Diego, I dreamed about racing here in a NASCAR vehicle someday. 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 you never forget.”
– Jimmie Johnson, Champion Driver and Team Owner
“It’s absolutely a bucket-list race for me. When I think about everything this sport has given me and where it all started, being able to race in San Diego feels like coming full circle. It’s going to be special,” he concluded.
– Jimmie Johnson, Champion Driver and Team Owner
The San Diego event, running from June 19 to 21, will receive national coverage through Amazon Prime, MRN, and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, providing high visibility for Johnson, Dario Franchitti, and fellow competitors.
The Significance of Johnson’s New Role and Franchitti’s Comeback
Jimmie Johnson’s move into the crew chief position for Dario Franchitti at Tricon Garage underscores the robust camaraderie and respect that have defined their professional journeys. Their collaboration brings added interest to the Craftsman Truck Series, while Franchitti’s return draws attention to both the Truck and Cup Series in the coming year. For Johnson, blending his experience as a driver and team leader in the Jimmie Johnson crew chief role showcases the diversity of his influence within NASCAR. Fans can anticipate memorable moments as these celebrated drivers challenge themselves and each other at two of the most anticipated events of the 2026 racing calendar.
BREAKING: @JimmieJohnson will be Dario Franchitti's crew chief next week for the #NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series street race in St. Petersburg.https://t.co/Kl6RfodAHx
— Above The Yellow Line Media (@ATYLmedia) February 22, 2026
