Jimmie Johnson, legendary seven-time NASCAR Cup champion, will step into the role of Jimmie Johnson honorary crew chief as the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series heads to St. Petersburg on February 28. In this celebrated return to the pit box, Johnson will guide Dario Franchitti, who is marking his first NASCAR start in 17 years, offering support and mentorship during this historic event.
Johnson to Guide Franchitti on St. Pete’s Historic Road Course
The upcoming race at St. Petersburg signals a significant moment for the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, as it returns to the Florida road course for the first time in three decades. Dario Franchitti, a decorated driver with four IndyCar championships and three Indianapolis 500 victories to his name, will pilot the No. 1 Toyota. This outing also marks the Truck Series’ addition of new road courses to its future calendar, including the San Diego Road Race in 2026, showing a renewed emphasis on diverse and challenging tracks.
Tricon Garage Clarifies Leadership Roles for the Weekend
While Johnson’s presence introduces significant star power and experience, a representative from Tricon Garage confirmed that Jerame Donley will serve as the official crew chief for the No. 1 Toyota on race day. Johnson’s capacity will be ceremonial and advisory, lending support and insight from the pit box.
“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
“Update: Tricon Garage clarifies Jerame Donley as their crew chief, for St. Pete with Jimmie Johnson serving in a supporting and advisory crew chief role.https://t.co/RGdF6QqWbt
— Above The Yellow Line Media (@ATYLmedia) February 23, 2026”
Johnson and Donley are no strangers to collaboration, tracing their professional relationship back to their time at Hendrick Motorsports. Donley, who now calls the shots for Tricon’s No. 1 Toyota, also worked as crew chief for Ty Dillon’s No. 42 Chevrolet at Legacy Motor Club in 2022, which Johnson owns.
A Bond Forged Over Decades Now Comes to NASCAR’s Road Course
The collaboration between Johnson and Franchitti is rooted in years of mutual respect and shared racing experiences. Both drivers belong to an elite class, having competed in both NASCAR and IndyCar. Johnson was instrumental in getting Franchitti to agree to enter the Truck Series, with Franchitti insisting that Johnson join him on the pit box in a symbolic show of support. This reunion highlights the enduring camaraderie between two of the sport’s titans.
Johnson’s appearance atop the pit box is more than a ceremonial act—it represents a full-circle moment for the duo, as both have shown the ability to transition successfully between racing disciplines. Their shared history, including hard-fought seasons and landmark victories such as Franchitti’s IndyCar successes and Johnson’s dominance in NASCAR, brings additional significance to this partnership at St. Pete.
Upcoming Adventures and Johnson’s Racing Future
Beyond his ceremonial crew chief role, Jimmie Johnson is continuing his diverse motorsport journey by confirming his participation in the 2026 BFGoodrich Mint 400 in Nevada, where he will drive the No. 84 Carvana 1Nine Industries Trick Truck for Terrible Herbst Motorsports. This storied off-road race near Las Vegas will see Johnson competing alongside more than fifty vehicle classes, reinforcing his reputation as a multi-discipline competitor.
Despite his active schedule, Johnson has announced that the following year’s Daytona 500 will mark his final appearance in the Cup Series. This announcement signals the winding down of his part-time Cup career, as he looks toward new challenges and legacy-building opportunities across motorsports.
A Ceremony of Experience and Friendship, Paving the Way Forward
Jimmie Johnson’s honorary crew chief role in St. Petersburg underscores his ongoing passion for racing and his willingness to mentor and support fellow champions like Dario Franchitti. As the Truck Series ventures into new road course territories and legacy figures come together, this race not only highlights cross-series talent but also sets the stage for new milestones in the ever-evolving NASCAR landscape. With Johnson at the helm in a guidance capacity, fans and competitors alike will be watching closely to see how his expertise shapes the action on the track and influences the next generation of talent.
Update: Tricon Garage clarifies Jerame Donley as their crew chief, for St. Pete with Jimmie Johnson serving in a supporting and advisory crew chief role.https://t.co/RGdF6QqWbt
— Above The Yellow Line Media (@ATYLmedia) February 23, 2026
