# Jimmie Johnson retirement and comeback

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/jimmie-johnson-retirement-and-comeback
> Updated: 2026-08-13T17:41:00.000Z. Sources: 12. Developments: 3.

After ending his full‑time NASCAR Cup career in 2020, seven‑time champion Jimmie Johnson shifted to the NTT IndyCar Series for the 2021‑2022 seasons, testing with Chip Ganassi Racing before concluding his IndyCar effort in September 2022. He then transitioned to team ownership, becoming the majority stakeholder of Legacy Motor Club, which fields two Cup entries.

In July 2026, Johnson announced that he will return for a single NASCAR Cup start at the 2027 Daytona 500, driving a Legacy Motor Club Toyota Camry in the iconic No. 48. The number loan from Hendrick Motorsports and Ally Financial, approved by NASCAR, allows him to make a farewell appearance without affecting driver or owner points. This return coincides with the announced retirement of fellow driver Alex Bowman at the end of the 2027 season.

As the 50-year-old transitions further into his role as majority owner of Legacy Motor Club, Johnson is focused on expanding his team through a strategic group of investors. He is also working toward announcing a third driver for the 2027 season.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-13: Jimmie Johnson to make final NASCAR Cup start at Daytona 500

NASCAR legend Jimmie Johnson will compete in his final Cup Series race at next season's Daytona 500, while continuing to expand his role as majority owner of Legacy Motor Club.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/jimmie-johnson-to-make-final-nascar-cup-start-at-daytona-500

### 2026-07-26: Jimmie Johnson to run No. 48 in final Cup start at 2027 Daytona 500

Jimmie Johnson will run the iconic No. 48 for his final NASCAR Cup start at the 2027 Daytona 500, borrowing the number from Hendrick Motorsports for a Legacy Motor Club entry.

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/jimmie-johnson-to-run-no-48-in-final-cup-start-at-2027-daytona-500

### 2026-07-23: Jimmie Johnson on Retirement, IndyCar Move and Jeff Gordon Mentorship

Jimmie Johnson retired from NASCAR after a 20‑year, 83‑win career, tried IndyCar in 2021‑22, and discussed Jeff Gordon’s mentorship and his new role as Legacy Motor Club owner.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/jimmie-johnson-on-retirement-indycar-move-and-jeff-gordon-mentorship

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Cite as: Jimmie Johnson retirement and comeback. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/jimmie-johnson-retirement-and-comeback