Jimmie Johnson, a seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, will conclude his part-time racing tenure by competing in his final NASCAR race at the 2027 Daytona 500. Since retiring from full-time competition in 2020, Johnson has been racing part-time with Legacy Motor Club (LMC), a team co-owned by racing legend Richard Petty, and he is set for his 15th start with the team at this year’s Daytona 500.
On February 14, Johnson announced that the iconic Daytona 500 event next year will mark the end of his career behind the wheel in NASCAR’s premier series, closing the chapter on one of the sport’s most celebrated driving careers.
Choosing Daytona for a Career-Defining Farewell
During a February 14 press conference, Johnson addressed his decision to make Daytona his final race. Known for his success with Hendrick Motorsports earlier in his career, Johnson explained that the distinct characteristics of NASCAR’s new NextGen car influenced his choice.
He expressed that tracks like Daytona, Talladega, and Atlanta offer the best opportunity for competitive performance with the current car model, unlike other venues such as Kansas.
This car is so different than any generation of car I’ve driven before. To show up at Kansas and think that you’re going to have a shot to win, even when I ran a nine-race schedule, it’s just not a true fit that can really be seen or realized. Daytona, you can. Talladega, you can. Atlanta, for sure,
Johnson said.
Next year, Johnson will race as a fourth entry for Legacy Motor Club at the Daytona 500, competing without a charter while the team fields three chartered cars. Johnson has claimed victory at this race twice previously, in 2006 and 2013, and views another potential win as a perfect finale to his Hall of Fame career.
To have my last race at an event where I can truly win it can be that cool walk-off home run,
Johnson added.
Stepping Away From Other Racing Disciplines
Johnson also confirmed that he will not pursue other motorsports opportunities such as IndyCar, focusing instead on developing Legacy Motor Club. He acknowledged that his passion for competition has waned from the intense drive he possessed early in his career.
Reflecting on his beginnings at age 25, when he first drove the #48 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet, Johnson recalled a powerful determination to win that has diminished over time.
His diminishing enthusiasm became apparent during the final years of his full-time career, culminating in this decision to retire fully from racing.
I don’t have that passion for that part of life anymore, and that’s been a tough thing to kind of accept. If I’m honest with myself, maybe the last year or two of driving, I was in that phase, but I had the best seat in the house. I was driving for the best team. I was almost in denial of maybe what was going on,
Johnson admitted.
Reflecting on a Remarkable NASCAR Legacy
Johnson’s retirement will mark the conclusion of one of NASCAR’s most illustrious careers. He shares the record for most Cup Series championships won, with seven titles, including an unprecedented five consecutive championships from 2006 to 2010. His legacy encompasses 83 career Cup victories, multiple Daytona 500 trophies, and a profound impact on the sport’s history.
As Johnson prepares for his final event at Daytona, the racing community anticipates the closing chapter of a driver whose competitive spirit defined an era and whose name remains synonymous with excellence in NASCAR.
In one year, Jimmie Johnson will make the final NASCAR Cup Series start of his career. The 2027 Daytona 500 will be his last ride.
He still has Daytona tomorrow and the San Diego race this year as well.
— Jeff Gluck (@jeff_gluck) February 14, 2026
Jimmie Johnson on why Daytona for his final Cup race — the 2027 Daytona 500 — and why INDYCAR also is off the table. @NASCARONFOX @IndyCarOnFOX pic.twitter.com/tHeDABKwg0
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) February 14, 2026
