Jimmie Johnson, the seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, has revealed that the 2027 Daytona 500 will mark the conclusion of his illustrious career in stock car racing’s premier division. The announcement came on Saturday, just before the 68th running of The Great American Race, signaling one final appearance at Daytona before stepping away from full-time competition in the Cup Series. While Johnson plans to remain active in other racing series and selected NASCAR events, he confirmed that he will not return to Cup racing beyond this farewell race.
Legacy Motor Club Ownership and Future Driving Plans
At 50 years old, Johnson is now the majority owner of Legacy Motor Club, which competes full-time in the Cup Series with drivers Erik Jones and John Hunter Nemechek. This season, Johnson is slated to participate in two more national level races outside of Daytona—specifically in Truck and Cup series events held near his hometown of El Cajon, California. The No. 84 car he will pilot at the upcoming Daytona 500 reflects his return to the team he co-owns, which recently expanded its presence by acquiring a third charter from Rick Ware Racing to support an additional full-time entry starting next season.
Throughout his long career, Johnson drove the No. 48 car or variations of it, but for his 2027 reunion at Daytona, he will likely compete with a different car number, marking a new chapter for the veteran racer.
Reflecting on Johnson’s Storied Racing Career
Johnson left full-time racing at Hendrick Motorsports after the 2020 season, closing a remarkable 19-year chapter marked by 83 Cup victories and a record-tying seven series championships. His split with longtime crew chief Chad Knaus two years earlier was a turning point in his career. Since stepping away from the daily grind of NASCAR’s top level, Johnson has devoted more time to family and embraced diverse racing opportunities, including two seasons in the IndyCar Series (2021-2022), where he earned the Indianapolis 500 rookie of the year award in 2022. Additionally, he has competed in endurance events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Rolex 24 at Daytona, and even tried his skills in unlimited hydroplane racing at Seafair.
Daytona 500: A Race of Historic Significance for Johnson
Sunday’s upcoming Daytona 500 will mark Johnson’s 23rd start in the prestigious event, where he previously triumphed in 2006 and 2013. Johnson stresses the unique value of this race, saying,
“It’s the only race you get a title,”
emphasizing that a victory here grants lasting recognition.
You get a title and you get reminded of it every time you’re introduced.
These wins helped define his career, propelling him to five consecutive championships and solidifying his status as one of NASCAR’s iconic figures. Notably, his first Daytona 500 win came despite an early setback when his crew chief Chad Knaus was expelled from the race and suspended for the following two events over an illegal car adjustment, demonstrating the resilience of their team.
Overcoming Adversity: How Challenges Forged a Stronger Team
Johnson pinpoints the winter following the 2005 season as a crucial period for growth, recalling the difficult fallout after Chad Knaus’s suspension.
A lot of growth took place in that offseason,
Johnson reflected, describing how the team coalesced in the face of adversity.
It really was that fortifying moment (for) us. It forced a lot of us to step up instead of just looking at Chad and saying, ‘All right, man, fix it.’ We all had so much more responsibility and skin in the game. We became a more efficient, effective, stronger team as a result. When I look back, that winter and then him being suspended were the most pivotal moment in the 48 team.
This turning point helped propel Johnson and his crew to later championship successes, shaping the dynamics that fueled years of dominance in NASCAR.
Reflecting on Time and Maturity
As Johnson approaches the end of his competitive journey in the Cup Series, he muses on the swift passage of time.
How has it been that long?
he wonders, acknowledging both the physical signs of aging and the rapid pace of his life’s progression.
I don’t think I’m any more mature. I certainly have a lot more gray. It’s just wild how fast time goes by.
This reflection underscores the bittersweet nature of an imminent farewell to the sport that has defined much of his life.
What Johnson’s Final Race Means for NASCAR and Legacy Motor Club
Jimmie Johnson’s decision to make the 2027 Daytona 500 his last Cup Series start not only closes a legendary chapter for the driver himself but also marks a significant moment for Legacy Motor Club. As the team’s owner, Johnson will shift his focus towards cultivating the organization into a top-tier competitor, leveraging his experience and leadership. His farewell race at one of NASCAR’s most celebrated events ensures that his legacy will be honored on a grand stage, while also leaving open the possibility for him to pursue other racing interests and business ventures beyond stock car racing.
For fans and the sport alike, Johnson’s final Daytona 500 start represents the conclusion of an era defined by remarkable achievements and transformative moments. His enduring impact on NASCAR, both on and off the track, will continue to influence the series for years to come.
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
