Jimmie Johnson, a seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and NASCAR Hall of Famer, is set to return to the NASCAR Truck Series in June, marking his first start in the series since 2008. Johnson’s comeback event will take place at Naval Base Coronado near San Diego, offering a special homecoming for the hometown driver from El Cajon, California, and reaffirming his enduring relationship with the sport.
Johnson to Compete in Truck Race After Long Hiatus
The TRICON Garage team confirmed on Thursday that Johnson will participate in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race scheduled for June 19 at Naval Base Coronado. This appearance marks Johnson’s second career start in the Truck Series, with his first and only previous entry dating back to 2008 at Bristol Motor Speedway, where he finished 34th. The upcoming race in San Diego gives Johnson a unique opportunity to compete in front of local fans and to revisit his roots near his hometown.
“NEWS: It’s a So-Cal homecoming for @JimmieJohnson!He’ll compete in his second career @NASCAR_Trucks race at @NASCARSanDiego for @TRICONGarage. pic.twitter.com/mFmiILX5X6″— NASCAR (@NASCAR) January 8, 2026
Multiple Races Planned for Homecoming Weekend
Along with his Truck Series entry, Johnson is also set to race with Legacy Motor Club, the NASCAR Cup Series team he co-owns, in the June 21 Cup Series event at Naval Base Coronado. Johnson could further add to his busy weekend by joining the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series race on June 20. If he chooses to enter, it would mark his first appearance in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series since 2013. Racing in all three events would maximize his time on track in front of enthusiastic home fans, creating a full-circle moment for the veteran driver.
2026 Daytona 500 and Continuing Legacy
In addition to his San Diego homecoming, Johnson’s plans include running the 2026 Daytona 500 for Legacy Motor Club. He has been granted an Open Exemption Provisional—guaranteeing his spot in the highly anticipated February 15 race. Johnson’s return to NASCAR events underlines both his passion for competition and his ongoing impact on the sport, which is celebrated by organizations like the NASCAR Hall of Fame and followed closely by motorsports media.
Significance of Johnson’s Return to the Track
Jimmie Johnson’s reappearance in the NASCAR Truck Series brings excitement for both longtime supporters and those new to the sport, especially in his local region. By competing at Naval Base Coronado, only a short drive from El Cajon, Johnson returns to his roots and energizes fans in Southern California. With his status as a NASCAR Hall of Famer and record of over 700 starts in the Cup Series, Johnson’s presence promises to draw attention to the sport and inspire future races and events around San Diego and beyond.
NEWS: It's a So-Cal homecoming for @JimmieJohnson!
He'll compete in his second career @NASCAR_Trucks race at @NASCARSanDiego for @TRICONGarage. pic.twitter.com/mFmiILX5X6
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) January 8, 2026
