Jimmie Johnson shared an amusing story about how former NASCAR driver Casey Mears unintentionally delayed his engagement plans with his wife, Chandra Janway. Reflecting on his early relationship and his eagerness to propose just six months into dating, Johnson revealed how Mears convinced him to wait longer before popping the question.
Johnson and Janway were introduced by NASCAR legend Jeff Gordon in 2002, beginning their relationship the following year. They married on December 11, 2004, and now have two daughters: Genevieve, born July 7, 2010, and Lydia Norriss, born September 6, 2013. The couple’s strong family ties are an important part of Johnson’s life both on and off the track.
How Casey Mears Intervened in Johnson’s Early Proposal Plans
On a recent episode of his podcast Never Settle, Johnson responded to a fan question about the riskiest decision he ever made, recalling the moment he bought an engagement ring early in his relationship with Janway. Excited about his intentions, he sought advice from Casey Mears, who was then in his rookie Cup Series season with Chip Ganassi Racing.
“I bought a ring six months into dating. I do recall. I go to [Casey] Mears, fully excited and happy….He’s like ‘for who’, I’m like who else. He’s like, ‘oh, one of those rings’, I’m like, ‘yeah, dude’. like you’re going, propose where you’ve been dating for six months. I’m like, ‘I’ve always heard when you know, you know,I know'”
– Jimmie Johnson, NASCAR Driver
Johnson explained that Mears asked to see the ring, then took it from him and locked it away for six months to prevent a premature proposal. This intervention helped Johnson reconsider the timing.
“He’s like. ‘Can I see it?’ I was like, ‘yeah, man, it’s in my pocket, hold on’. Pull this thing out. I show it to him. He grabs it, puts it in his pocket, and he goes, ‘I’m not going to give it back to you for six months. I’m going to lock it my safe. You cannot be walking around with this in your pocket. You at least need to date her for a year.’ And I was like, ‘all right makes sense,'”
– Jimmie Johnson, NASCAR Driver
Ultimately, Johnson heeded Mears’ advice and waited to propose, which led to the lasting marriage they share today. This friendly intervention by Mears, who currently competes part-time driving the Garage 66 car and plans to finish the season at Talladega, Martinsville, and Phoenix, was pivotal in Johnson’s engagement story.
Jimmie Johnson’s Team Resolves Charter Dispute with Rick Ware Racing
Separately, Johnson’s Legacy Motor Club (LMC) recently settled a significant charter dispute with Rick Ware Racing (RWR) on September 19, allowing LMC to expand to a three-car team by utilizing RWR’s charter. The resolution ended months of legal back-and-forth involving contract disputes and restraining orders related to the transfer of the charter.
Johnson commented to NBC Sports on the agreement, emphasizing the importance of collaboration.
“Reaching a positive outcome was important for everyone involved. I truly respect the effort put forth by Robby Benton and Rick Ware to reach a settlement so we may all focus on our business operations and future goals.”
– Jimmie Johnson, NASCAR Driver and Team Owner
The conflict began when RWR asserted the charter transfer date was 2027, while LMC insisted it was 2026, leading to lawsuits from both sides. LMC also secured a restraining order to prevent RWR from selling their team to TJ Puchyr, which they said would interfere with their agreement. With the charter issue resolved, LMC is now seeking a third driver to join the team.
Johnson had mentioned young prospects Connor Zilisch and Jesse Love as potential candidates; however, with Zilisch now affiliated with Trackhouse Racing, Love appears to be the favored option for the expanding squad.
The Enduring Impact of Johnson’s Early Engagement Experience
Johnson’s revelation about how Casey Mears influenced his decision to delay proposing illuminates the personal side of a racing legend better known for his seven NASCAR Cup Series championships. This story of timing and patience underscores a meaningful lesson beyond the racetrack, highlighting how trusted friends can help steer critical life choices.
As Johnson balances his roles as a competitor, team owner, and father to Genevieve and Lydia Norriss, this engagement story adds depth to his public persona by showing how moments of mentorship and advice shape even the most celebrated athletes. Meanwhile, his team’s recent business developments signal a growing ambition to strengthen the Legacy Motor Club’s position in NASCAR’s competitive landscape.
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