Jimmie Johnson’s Legacy Motor Club (LMC) and Rickware Racing (RWR) have resolved their ongoing legal conflict over the sale and transfer of a NASCAR team charter, ending a tense dispute that began in early April. The settlement addresses the contested charter transfer involving a high-profile transaction affecting the upcoming seasons, though specific details of the agreement have not been disclosed.
Background of the Charter Conflict Between LMC and RWR
The dispute originated on April 1, when LMC filed a lawsuit against RWR, accusing the latter of trying to withdraw from a finalized charter sale that was set to begin in the 2026 season. Industry insiders speculated the charter was valued at an estimated $45 million. By the time the teams appeared in court on April 30, confusion arose regarding which of RWR’s two charters was actually part of the deal.
RWR owns two NASCAR charters: Charter 27 and Charter 36. LMC believed it had agreed to purchase Charter 27, which is leased to Brad Keselowski’s RFK Racing for the 2026 season. However, RWR appeared to consider selling Charter 36 instead, which currently supports their No. 51 car driven by Cody Ware. If Charter 36 were sold, RWR would lose all charters for 2026 because Charter 27 remained leased to RFK Racing for that season.
This mix-up created uncertainty about both the charter sale’s timing and which charter was actually included, complicating preparations for the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season.
Clarification on the Timing of the Settlement and Its Implications
The resolution between LMC and RWR removes much of the immediate legal tension, but questions persist regarding when the sale will officially take effect. NASCAR reporter Bob Pockrass has indicated that RWR plans to operate as a chartered team during the 2026 season. Additionally, RFK Racing confirmed their lease agreement with RWR remains valid for 2026, suggesting the charter sale to LMC will start in 2027 rather than 2026.
Until an official announcement is made, the exact terms and timeline of the settlement will remain unclear, leaving close observers cautious about assuming outcomes.
Jimmie Johnson Expresses Relief Following Resolution
Jimmie Johnson expressed his satisfaction with the settlement, welcoming the end to a confusing and stressful chapter for both teams. In a statement reported by NBC Sports, Johnson remarked,
“I truly respect the effort put forth by (RWR President) Robby Benton and Rick Ware to reach a settlement so we may all focus on our business operations and future goals. I’m glad this is behind us, and we can all move forward in unison.”
Jimmie Johnson, Team Owner
Johnson’s comments reflect a desire to move forward collectively and avoid distractions as the teams prepare for upcoming NASCAR seasons.
Potential Impact on LMC’s NASCAR Cup Series Plans
If the sale does become effective for the 2026 season rather than 2027, Legacy Motor Club would have limited time to finalize its NASCAR Cup Series third team entry. Rumors have emerged linking Xfinity Series driver Jesse Love as a likely candidate to fill a seat for the new LMC entry, signaling increased activity behind the scenes as preparations accelerate.
Resolving this charter dispute is a crucial step for both Legacy Motor Club and Rickware Racing, as it clarifies ownership and charter rights that are vital to their participation in future NASCAR events. For Johnson and his team, the settlement paves the way to focus on racing and strategic development without the distraction of ongoing legal conflicts.
As far as Rick Ware Racing’s 2026 plans, according to spokesman: “RWR will continue to race its No. 51 as a chartered entry in 2026.”
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) September 19, 2025
