Jimmie Johnson NASCAR Return: Jimmie Johnson, a seven-time Cup Series champion, left his full-time driving stint in 2020. His last drive for Hendrick Motorsports took place at Phoenix Raceway, finishing fifth behind teammate Chase Elliott, the season champion.
Over 20 years and 686 starts, Johnson earned 83 wins, 232 top-fives, 374 top-10s, and 34 pole positions. He joined Richard Petty and the late Dale Earnhardt Sr. in the prestigious seven-championship club.
Leaving the No. 48 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet, Johnson hinted that his racing career wasn’t entirely over. He expressed intentions of returning for select Cup Series events and ventured into the NTT IndyCar circuit in 2021, earning Rookie of the Year at the 2022 Indianapolis 500.
In a recent announcement, Johnson revealed his investment in Petty GMS Racing alongside Maury Gallegher and Richard Petty, marking his return to NASCAR.
The team, now known as Legacy Motor Club, disclosed that Jason Burdett will serve as crew chief for Johnson’s No. 84 Toyota Camry XSE in select Cup Series races in 2024. Burdett, with nearly three decades of experience in top Cup operations, brings a wealth of knowledge to the role.
Burdett’s journey started in local tracks near Watkins Glen, New York, before working with renowned teams like Robert Yates Racing and Hendrick Motorsports. He played pivotal roles in championship-winning teams and had a significant impact on Johnson’s career from its inception.
Johnson expressed excitement about Burdett’s addition, citing their long history and strong working relationship. The team also announced Evan Bensch as lead engineer and Robbie Fairweather as car chief. Additionally, John Hunter Nemechek will pilot the No. 42 LEGACY MOTOR CLUB Toyota from 2024.
Burdett is enthusiastic about the challenge and reuniting with Johnson, highlighting their shared history and expressing honor in contributing to Johnson’s legendary career.
Scheduled races for Johnson in 2024 include Texas Motor Speedway on April 14, Kansas Speedway on May 5, and Charlotte Motor Speedway on May 26, with further events to be announced.
ALSO READ: Jason Burdett Returns to Jimmie Johnson’s Side at Legacy Motor Club for NASCAR 2024 Season
Our Reader’s Queries
Is Jimmie Johnson returning to NASCAR in 2023?
Jimmie Johnson, the seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and co-owner of Legacy Motor Club, has recently announced his participation in two upcoming races in 2023. Johnson will be racing at Circuit of the Americas in March and the Coca-Cola 600 in May, both of which are part of his limited schedule. Club Wyndham will be sponsoring Johnson in both races.
Will Jimmie Johnson race in 2024?
In 2024, Johnson is set to participate in Cup Series races at Texas Motor Speedway on April 14, Kansas Speedway on May 5, and Charlotte Motor Speedway on May 26. Additional races will be revealed in due course.
Why did Jimmie Johnson quit racing in NASCAR?
Jimmie Johnson, the seven-time NASCAR champion, has withdrawn from an upcoming race following the tragic deaths of his in-laws and nephew. The authorities in Oklahoma are investigating the incident as a possible murder-suicide. This is a heartbreaking situation for Johnson and his family, and our thoughts are with them during this difficult time.
Does Jimmy Johnson own a car in NASCAR?
On November 4th, Johnson made a big announcement – he’s returning to NASCAR! He’s now a part owner in Petty GMS and will be participating in select races, including the highly anticipated Daytona 500. During an appearance on the “Today” show, Johnson revealed that Carvana will be sponsoring him for the Daytona 500. It’s an exciting time for Johnson and his fans, who can’t wait to see him back on the track.
