NASCAR star Jimmie Johnson has announced that the upcoming Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway will not mark the end of his Cup Series racing career, dispelling rumors that he would retire after his 700th start this Sunday. The seven-time Cup Series champion plans to continue competing in NASCAR, confirming that his involvement in the sport extends beyond this milestone event.
Johnson, who no longer races full-time, will drive the No. 84 Toyota at the Coca-Cola 600, a race that holds special significance as it marks his 700th career Cup Series start. Earlier this season, he demonstrated that he remains highly competitive by finishing third at the Daytona 500, showcasing strong performance despite not securing the win.
Clarification on Johnson’s Future Plans After the Coca-Cola 600
Jeff Gluck from The Athletic reported on Friday that Johnson has no plans to retire after the upcoming race at Charlotte. The milestone of 700 starts, while significant, does not signal the conclusion of his NASCAR career.
There’s been speculation that 700 for seven-time is the end, but FYI that’s not the plan,” Gluck wrote on X. “It’s a significant round number at the place where JJ made his first start, but we will see him in a Cup car again.
—Jeff Gluck, Reporter
Supporting this update, Johnson himself emphasized that the Coca-Cola 600 holds special meaning to him, but does not mark the end of his time behind the wheel. He expressed his intention to continue racing as long as it remains a sensible decision for both himself and the Legacy Motor Club, his current team.
Seven hundred, at Charlotte, it’s really turning out to be something very special for me,” Johnson said. “It’s not going to be my last, you know, it would be nice to end on a round number, but I’ll still be behind the wheel at least next year and as long as it really makes sense for me to run cars here at Legacy Motor Club.
—Jimmie Johnson, NASCAR Driver
Johnson’s Busy Weekend and Upcoming Plans
Alongside his NASCAR commitments this weekend, Johnson is scheduled to participate in ceremonial laps with Tom Brady at the Indianapolis 500, highlighting his continued involvement in high-profile motorsports events. After the Coca-Cola 600, Johnson is expected to provide further insight into his racing schedule and future goals.
Fans of Johnson and NASCAR anticipate his continued pursuit of success, including another possible trip to Victory Lane. His ongoing participation reaffirms his passion for the sport and determination to compete at a high level despite stepping back from full-time racing.
