Jimmie Johnson will join the grid for the 2026 Daytona 500, with Legacy Motor Club confirming use of the Open Exemption Provisional (OEP) to secure his place as the 41st competitor, according to NASCAR officials on Wednesday. Johnson, known for his two previous Daytona 500 victories, will pilot the No. 84 Carvana Toyota in the 68th annual running of the event, taking place Sunday, February 15.
Background on the Open Exemption Provisional
The Open Exemption Provisional, introduced by NASCAR prior to the 2025 season, is a guaranteed slot for accomplished drivers in the Cup Series field, acting as a promoter’s choice. Its purpose is to give distinguished figures from NASCAR or other motorsport disciplines the opportunity to compete. The rule requires NASCAR to expand the field to 41 cars whenever this slot is used. The approach was first applied in the 2025 Daytona 500, enabling Trackhouse Racing to place four-time Indianapolis 500 winner Hélio Castroneves into the event, setting a precedent for subsequent seasons. Before this rule change, drivers like Castroneves would have had to rely solely on qualifying races for their spot.
Implications for Johnson in the 2026 Race
With the OEP, Johnson will have an assured chance to race for the Daytona 500 victory, the winner’s trophy, and All-Star Race qualification. However, the terms of the provisional dictate that he will not accumulate championship points or receive prize earnings from this event. This distinction emphasizes the provisional’s role as an opportunity for celebrated, world-class drivers rather than full-time championship contenders.
Legacy and Race Schedule for Johnson
Johnson stands as a seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and a prominent team owner with Legacy Motor Club. He stepped away from full-time racing after the 2020 season and was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2024. His return to the sport in 2023 marked the start of his part-time competition schedule with Legacy Motor Club. For 2026, his plans include races at both the Daytona 500 and an event on June 21 at Naval Base Coronado, located near his hometown of El Cajon, California. The upcoming Naval Base Coronado event is notable as NASCAR’s first-ever race to be held on an active United States military base.
What Johnson’s Provisional Means For NASCAR’s Future
This move signifies NASCAR’s ongoing efforts to attract legendary drivers and generate interest in marquee events like the Daytona 500. Expanding the grid to accommodate established champions through the OEP could shape future participation in the series, allowing icons like Johnson and Castroneves to make appearances that bring both experience and star power. With Johnson’s confirmed entry under this system, fans can look forward to seeing one of NASCAR’s most successful figures compete at Daytona once again.
