Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson has secured an entry for the 2026 DAYTONA 500, confirming his participation well ahead of the event. This move, involving Johnson and LEGACY MOTOR CLUB, guarantees that the veteran driver, originally from El Cajon, California, will compete in his 701st NASCAR Cup Series start at the Daytona International Speedway.
Open Exemption Provisional Grants Johnson a Place
The announcement follows a report from Bob Pockrass of FOX Sports, with NASCAR officially confirming that LEGACY MOTOR CLUB has been approved for the ‘Open Exemption Provisional.’ This exemption allows Johnson and his team to bypass the uncertainty often associated with qualifying for ‘The Great American Race.’ Johnson will be driving the No. 84 Carvana-sponsored Toyota Camry XSE for his team, in which he also holds majority ownership.
Johnson Returns to Compete Part-Time
After retiring from full-time NASCAR Cup Series competition in 2020, Johnson diverted his focus to racing in the NTT IndyCar Series for two seasons. He later chose to make a part-time return to NASCAR while taking on ownership responsibilities at LEGACY MOTOR CLUB. His swift confirmation for the 2026 DAYTONA 500 removes the pressure to qualify, a process that last year left him in a narrow showdown with JJ Yeley for the final transfer spot.
Field Expansion and Updated Provisional Rules
With Johnson’s entry, the 2026 DAYTONA 500 will host 41 starters, an increase that stems from the use of the Open Exemption Provisional. Previously, Trackhouse Racing utilized the same provisional in 2025 to allow four-time Indianapolis 500 race winner Helio Castroneves into the lineup in the No. 91 Chevrolet. Castroneves, however, experienced misfortune after a crash during the Duels, ultimately having to accept the 41st starting position.
The rules regarding the Open Exemption Provisional have recently changed. Now, teams and drivers who apply must declare they will take the 41st spot, and in doing so, forgo prize money and championship points. Johnson and LEGACY MOTOR CLUB have already made this commitment as part of their entry.
Qualifying Remains Fierce for Other Open Entries
The overall qualifying structure for the 2026 DAYTONA 500 remains unaltered. There will be four field spots available for Open entries, with at least seven contenders expected as of January 7. While most drivers will battle for these limited positions, Johnson’s secured spot alleviates any qualifying-day tension for him and his team, especially after last year’s close call involving the NY Racing driver and JJ Yeley.
Looking Back and Ahead to Race Day
In his most recent DAYTONA 500 appearance, Johnson finished third, with William Byron taking the win and Tyler Reddick finishing second. The upcoming NASCAR Cup Series season will begin with the DAYTONA 500 at Daytona International Speedway on Sunday, February 15. Fans can tune in via FOX, MRN, and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90 for full coverage of the event where Johnson aims to add to his 83 career Cup Series wins.
Jimmie Johnson has guaranteed spot in Daytona 500. Legacy applied for and has been granted the "open exemption provisional" … so Johnson is guaranteed spot and field will be 41 cars. Johnson won't get purse $. Where he starts I'd expect depends on finish in duels. @NASCARONFOX
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) January 7, 2026
