Jimmie Johnson recently discussed the growing respect NASCAR drivers have earned worldwide in an interview with motorsports journalist Will Buxton. He highlighted how the sport is expanding its influence and improving its reputation across various international markets.
Since retiring from full-time NASCAR competition, Johnson transitioned to IndyCar before returning to NASCAR as a team owner with Legacy Motor Club (LMC). What started as a single-car team has evolved into a two-car operation, with Johnson occasionally competing part-time.
LMC recently expanded further by acquiring a third chartered entry from Rick Ware Racing following a legal dispute with Spire Motorsports. Beginning in 2027, the team will field three cars, marking a significant growth phase for Johnson’s organization.
Adding to his efforts to boost NASCAR’s global profile, Johnson and driver John Hunter Nemechek traveled to Japan in November to participate in a NASCAR showcase event ahead of the Super Taikyu Series finale. This appearance demonstrated a commitment to strengthening NASCAR’s presence outside the United States.
In addition, Johnson competed in the 2023 24 Hours of Le Mans driving the Garage 56 entry alongside Jenson Button and Mike Rockenfeller. Their team finished 39th overall in this prestigious endurance race, further emphasizing Johnson’s versatility and engagement with international motorsport.
“My belief in that is moving in a positive direction with all the travels I’ve done. Our culture in Europe is quite impressive, so I believe there is a respect,” Johnson said.
Johnson also addressed common misconceptions about NASCAR’s operations, particularly from a European perspective:
“Take somebody to your headquarters, the factory as they say in Europe, and they look around like gosh. We thought this was going to be like a you, a service station with a couple of guys who rags tucked in their back pocket and it, it’s just not it.
Earlier this year, Johnson competed in the 2026 Daytona 500 using the Open Exemption Provisional rule, which guaranteed him a starting spot. However, his race ended prematurely with a DNF, contrasting with a podium finish at the previous year’s event.
Jimmie Johnson to Serve as Crew Chief for IndyCar Champion’s Truck Series Return
In a surprising move, Johnson announced he will act as crew chief for Dario Franchitti during an upcoming NASCAR Truck Series race at St. Petersburg. This event marks Franchitti’s return to NASCAR competition for the first time since 2008.
Johnson explained the decision in an interview with Above the Line Media, emphasizing the long-standing friendship between the two drivers:
“Dario and I’s friendship is 20 or 30 years deep. I talked him into driving a truck, and he said, ‘If I’m driving, I need you on the box.’ So I’ll be on the box doing my best to not mess him up,” he said.
Franchitti will drive the No. 1 Toyota for TRICON Garage. At his last Truck Series race at Martinsville Speedway, Franchitti finished outside the top 30. Johnson expressed enthusiasm about working with the team:
“I’m super excited; Tricon has incredible equipment. They’ve put together a really nice opportunity for us to run Dario.”
The race is set for Saturday, February 28, starting at 12 PM ET and will cover 80 laps around the circuit.
Johnson’s efforts both on and off the track illustrate NASCAR’s increasing global reach and the growing respect the sport commands within the international motorsports community. As his Legacy Motor Club continues to expand, and with collaborations like his upcoming Truck Series crew chief role, Johnson remains a key figure in NASCAR’s evolving landscape.
Do NASCAR drivers get the international recognition they deserve? @JimmieJohnson on respect from the world racing community.@wbuxtonofficial | @KevinHarvick pic.twitter.com/96DCW8eLx4
— SPEED on FOX (@SPEEDonFOX) February 26, 2026
