Jimmie Johnson, a celebrated seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and current owner of Legacy Motor Club, has confirmed his highly anticipated return to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series after nearly two decades. Johnson’s comeback will take place in San Diego during the inaugural street race at the Naval Base, marking an emotionally charged homecoming for the California native and generating excitement among fans eager for his participation.
Emotional Homecoming for Johnson in San Diego
Since stepping away from full-time racing, Johnson has turned his focus to team ownership and supporting Legacy Motor Club’s growth, occasionally stepping back into the driver’s seat for select events. However, he has not participated in the Truck Series since 2008, making his return a significant moment both for his career and for NASCAR’s fanbase. San Diego’s unique Naval Base setting only amplifies the importance, as Johnson, who grew up in California, will be racing on familiar ground.
With NASCAR introducing San Diego’s street race to the upcoming season schedule, Johnson expressed his delight early on, hinting at a potential return. He made his commitment official recently, stating that he will compete throughout the San Diego racing weekend beginning on a Friday. He is set to drive the No. 1 Toyota Tundra Pro with Tricon Garage, followed by piloting the No. 84 Toyota for his own Legacy Motor Club team in subsequent events.
“WELCOME SEVEN-TIME!@JimmieJohnson returns to the @NASCAR_Trucks for the first time since ‘08 to take on San Diego in the No. 1 🙌 pic.twitter.com/6blyQhnHQ6”
, — TRICON (@TRICONGarage) January 8, 2026.
Johnson’s longtime sponsor, Carvana, a well-known online car-buying platform, is set to support him during both of his San Diego appearances. This continued partnership underlines the collaborative efforts involved in bringing Johnson’s return to fruition.
Johnson Reflects on His Return and the Significance of the Race
In a heartfelt response to the announcement, Johnson shared his feelings about competing on a 3.4-mile street course in his native California.
“Racing in San Diego means everything to me – it’s home. Getting behind the wheel of a Truck Series entry has been on my mind for a while.”
— Jimmie Johnson, Seven-Time NASCAR Cup Series Champion.
He expanded on the meaning of racing in his home state and at such a historic venue, remarking,
“The competition is incredible, and doing it at a historic street race on a Navy base in my hometown? That’s special.”
— Jimmie Johnson, Seven-Time NASCAR Cup Series Champion.
Johnson also took time to recognize those making this possible for him:
“I’m grateful to TRICON and Carvana for making this happen, and honestly, I can’t think of a better way to honor our military and celebrate where I’m from.”
— Jimmie Johnson, Seven-Time NASCAR Cup Series Champion.
His emotional investment in the event is evident, particularly given the long absence from the Truck Series and the race’s alignment with Juneteenth, underscoring its symbolic importance.
Event Details and Anticipated Impact
The San Diego race is slated for June 19, coinciding with Juneteenth, and will kick off the weekend with the Truck Series competition, broadcast live on FS1 and NASCAR’s SiriusXM Radio. Johnson’s dual participation—first with Tricon Garage and then with Legacy Motor Club—signifies a celebration not only for his personal journey but for the sport’s ongoing evolution and community focus.
This return presents a notable chapter in Jimmie Johnson’s multifaceted career and serves as an inspiring moment for NASCAR, fans, and his partners. As the event approaches, anticipation continues to build around Johnson’s Jimmie Johnson NASCAR Truck return and the significance it holds for both the driver and his home state.
https://twitter.com/TRICONGarage/status/2009278713297305758
