The transition from NASCAR to the IndyCar Series is more demanding than many fans realize, according to seven-time Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson. After retiring from NASCAR, Johnson competed in IndyCar during the 2021 and 2022 seasons, offering firsthand insight into the complexities involved in switching between these two distinct types of racing.
Stock car racing and open-wheel racing differ greatly in handling and performance, making the switch a significant challenge. Johnson shared his experience in a recent discussion with former IndyCar driver Paul Tracy, emphasizing the steep learning curve involved. His remarks highlighted the technical difficulties that come with adjusting from the heavier, mechanically gripped stock cars to the high-speed, aerodynamically sensitive IndyCars.
The Technical Differences Between NASCAR and IndyCar Driving
Johnson explained that in NASCAR, a car beginning to slide signals reaching the edge of mechanical grip, which prompts a driver to ease off. In contrast, when an IndyCar starts to move at high speed, it often means the vehicle is just entering the lowest part of its performance range, requiring the driver to push harder. This fundamental difference necessitated unlearning many habits Johnson developed during his NASCAR career.
“I had two amazing years and a lot of fun. But one thing that was really tough for me to grasp and part of that unlearning, I had to unwind and then relearn… is that in IndyCar, as you start getting close to pace, the car starts moving around a little bit.”
—Jimmie Johnson
“In a stock car, when it moves around, you’re at the threshold of the mechanical grip that’s available because it’s more mechanical grip than aero grip. So, you back up a step. In an Indy Car, you’re just getting into the bottom side of the performance window. When it moves around, you’ve got to commit more, and there’s more if you’re going faster.”
—Jimmie Johnson
Why Adapting to IndyCar Demands More Than Just Skill
Johnson’s reflections show that adapting to IndyCar racing involves more than just driving skill; it demands a fundamental shift in approach and mindset. Drivers like Kyle Larson have also struggled with this adjustment, particularly evident during the Memorial Day weekend when competing across both formats revealed the extent of these difficulties.
This insight into Johnson’s NASCAR to IndyCar transition experience sheds light on the often underappreciated challenges drivers face when crossing over between America’s two premier motorsport series. As more drivers attempt this switch, understanding these nuances could impact future career moves and the development of training that bridges the gap between stock car and open-wheel racing.
