Jimmie Johnson is set to make a highly anticipated comeback to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, racing at San Diego for TRICON Garage in June 2026. This marks Johnson’s first appearance in NASCAR trucks since 2008, creating a notable moment for him and the San Diego crowd as part of military appreciation weekend at Naval Base Coronado.
The Jimmie Johnson NASCAR San Diego entry is especially significant as it will be his second career Truck Series start and follows the announcement of his participation in the inaugural NASCAR Cup Series street course event at the same location. Notably, NASCAR has opened the door for drivers to compete in multiple national series at San Diego, allowing overlapping participation that has not always been permitted at new tracks.
Jimmie Johnson’s San Diego Return with TRICON Garage
According to reports from Bob Pockrass of FOX Sports, Johnson will drive for TRICON Garage in San Diego with the backing of Carvana. The race at Naval Base Coronado is unique, serving as Johnson’s second career truck start and coming on a weekend packed with major NASCAR festivities—all three NASCAR national series will compete at this location.
This opportunity is amplified by the track’s fresh status on the calendar. Traditionally, NASCAR evaluates the possibility of drivers using new events for additional seat time, sometimes restricting entrants to only their designated points-paying series. With the wider participation window this time, Johnson’s double-duty schedule is set to generate buzz among fans and insiders alike.
The weekend’s races will take place from June 19 to 21, 2026—Father’s Day weekend—while the event also celebrates the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Navy. For Johnson, who grew up near San Diego, this marks not just a return to racing trucks, but a meaningful personal milestone.
“Excited to announce I’ll be participating in the inaugural [NASCAR San Diego] race in my home state next June!”
— Jimmie Johnson, Twitter.
Personal Connection to San Diego and the Event
Johnson’s ties to San Diego run deep, as he grew up just miles from the city, making this race a heartfelt homecoming. He has described competing at San Diego as a “bucket-list” achievement and a realization he never thought possible. Johnson explained that it once seemed unlikely that NASCAR could ever organize a race in the city due to a lack of suitable venues—yet, the creation of the naval base street course has brought his dream to fruition.
“Growing up just miles from San Diego, I dreamed about racing here in a NASCAR vehicle someday, but I never thought it would be possible,”
Jimmie Johnson said in a press release.
“I just came to the realization that there would be no way NASCAR could race in that city – as there would be nowhere to put a track. So, it’s just mind-blowing to me that NASCAR made this a reality.”
— Jimmie Johnson, press release.
Johnson also emphasized the importance of being able to return with his sponsors and team.
“To come back home, compete in front of my community, the military, my family, and friends, and do it with Carvana and LEGACY MOTOR CLUB, this is one of those full-circle experiences I will never forget. It’s a lifelong dream.”
— Jimmie Johnson, press release.
A Weekend of Celebration for NASCAR and the Military
NASCAR’s decision to bring all of its top series to San Diego intertwines with a major military milestone: the U.S. Navy’s 250th anniversary. The circuit’s visit to Naval Base Coronado serves as a tribute to military personnel and a celebration of American motorsports at a site where Johnson’s personal and professional histories connect.
Carvana, Johnson’s longtime supporter, will sponsor the No. 84 Toyota Camry XSE he is set to drive. Details regarding the car’s special paint scheme will be unveiled as the event approaches, further adding to the anticipation.
Looking Ahead to Impact and Expectations
Jimmie Johnson’s entry into the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and the Cup Series race at San Diego is positioned to boost excitement and viewership for this unique event. The convergence of a racing legend returning to his home state, the celebration of a major Navy anniversary, and the innovation of a new street course creates a powerful synergy—one that is sure to leave a mark on both the sport and the community. With NASCAR charting new ground and Johnson chasing a lifelong aspiration, the San Diego race is already shaping up as a highlight of the 2026 calendar.
Jimmie Johnson to drive Tricon No. 1 truck at San Diego. He also is doing Cup race. So appears NASCAR will allow drivers to do more than one series at San Diego (there was question on whether they'd limit drivers to series they get points in to avoid buying rides for track time)
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) January 8, 2026
Going back to Cali 🤙
Excited to announce I’ll be participating in the inaugural @NASCARSanDiego race in my home state next June!
Read More: https://t.co/2hTIQP2kEO pic.twitter.com/51Q8zzxzX2
— Jimmie Johnson (@JimmieJohnson) November 5, 2025
