Jimmie Johnson announced on Saturday that the 2027 Daytona 500 will mark his final race in the NASCAR Cup Series. The announcement was made during an appearance on ESPN’s Marty & McGee and later confirmed by Legacy Motor Club in an official statement, signaling the end of a remarkable era in NASCAR with Johnson transitioning fully to team ownership.
Reflections on an Illustrious Career and Future Focus
The seven-time NASCAR Cup champion expressed gratitude for his accomplishments throughout his career, highlighting the freedom he has gained in recent years to make selective race entries. Johnson explained his decision, focusing on his commitment to building Legacy Motor Club into a premier team.
Next February, I’ll make my final start in the Cup Series at Daytona,
Johnson stated.
I’ve been very fortunate to accomplish more than I ever imagined in this sport. The last six years have given me the freedom to choose where I compete and more importantly, the clarity to understand where I’m needed most. It’s time to focus my energy on building a world class and unrivaled organization in Legacy Motor Club.
Transitioning Focus from Driver to Team Owner
While Johnson remains open to participating in races outside the Cup Series, he confirmed the 2027 Daytona 500 as his last start in NASCAR’s premier division. As a team owner, he plans to dedicate race days to supporting Legacy Motor Club’s drivers and crews, and fostering relationships essential to the team’s sustained growth.
As a team owner, I need to be on the sidelines on race day supporting our drivers and crews on the competition side and cultivating relationships that are crucial to the long-term growth of the Club,
Johnson remarked.
I also want to take the time to celebrate with fans throughout the season to show how grateful I am for their support throughout my career.
Johnson’s Racing Journey and Career Highlights
Johnson’s career debuted in 2001 with Hendrick Motorsports, where he drove the No. 48 Chevrolet and amassed 83 wins and seven championships over 16 seasons. After announcing his retirement from full-time Cup racing in 2020, Johnson transitioned to the NTT INDYCAR Series, competing part-time in 2021 and full-time in 2022, earning Rookie of the Year honors at the Indianapolis 500.
Following a mixed IndyCar tenure, Johnson returned to NASCAR in 2023 as a driver-owner with Legacy Motor Club, initially partnered with seven-time champion Richard Petty. Johnson selected No. 84 for his car, symbolizing his pursuit of an 84th win. Though he has not yet reached victory lane with his new team, he achieved a top-five finish in the 2025 Daytona 500, and in 2024 Legacy Motor Club switched to Toyota, with plans to expand to three teams possibly by 2027.
Shared Final Daytona 500 Among NASCAR Legends
The 2027 Daytona 500 is expected to be the last for fellow NASCAR star Denny Hamlin as well, marking a poignant moment as two prominent figures from the last quarter-century prepare to conclude their participation in the sport’s most iconic race. In the current 2024 Daytona 500, Hamlin and Johnson are positioned 22nd and 31st, respectively.
Industry Recognition of Johnson’s Legacy
Tyler Gibbs, president of TRD U.S.A., praised Johnson’s achievements both on and off the track and looked ahead to future collaborations.
Jimmie Johnson is a champion in every aspect of his life – with his family, as the leader of Legacy Motor Club and with his incredible success behind the wheel. As he prepares to close the chapter of his iconic on-track NASCAR career, we celebrate his legacy in the sport and look forward to what we’ll continue to achieve together in the years to come.
Tyler Gibbs, president, TRD U.S.A.
