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Dale Earnhardt Jr. Predicts Jimmie Johnson’s Next Big Move in NASCAR

Virgilio Machado by Virgilio Machado
February 15, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 4 mins read
0
Dale Earnhardt Jr. Predicts Jimmie Johnson’s Next Big Move in NASCAR

Feb 12, 2025; Daytona Beach, Florida, USA; NASCAR team owner Dale Earnhardt Jr. talks with NASCAR Cup Series driver Jimmie Johnson (84) during qualifying for the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Peter Casey-Imagn Images

Could Jimmie Johnson be the first Cup team owner to align with NASCAR’s long-awaited fourth manufacturer? Dale Earnhardt Jr. seems to think so.

For years, NASCAR has flirted with the idea of adding a new original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to compete alongside Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota. While NASCAR has made significant regulation and policy changes to attract new manufacturers, no official announcement has been made—yet. However, when that time comes, Dale Jr. believes Jimmie Johnson will be first in line to make the switch.


The Perfect Opportunity for Legacy Motor Club?

Earnhardt Jr. discussed the possibility of a new manufacturer entering the Cup Series on his podcast, explaining how it could reshape the NASCAR landscape. According to him, the addition of a fourth OEM could give mid-tier teams the chance to step up—similar to how Joe Gibbs Racing partnered with Toyota in 2008 and evolved into a powerhouse organization.

And who does Dale Jr. see as the perfect candidate to jump ship and become the “top dog” for a new manufacturer?

“You’re going to have interest from the guys that are not… the third or fourth in line at the other OEMs. Like a Jimmie Johnson. I could absolutely see Jimmie going, ‘A new OEM’s coming in? You want to make us the priority? You’re going to give us the resources to become what we want to become? We’re in.’”

This bold prediction makes sense, considering Legacy Motor Club’s (LMC) recent struggles since transitioning from Chevrolet to Toyota in 2024. The team has yet to see the success they expected, making a future switch to a new manufacturer an appealing option—especially if it means receiving priority support.


Can Johnson Build a Championship-Worthy Team?

Dale Jr. didn’t stop there. He went on to praise Johnson’s leadership and vision, believing that if LMC had the same level of manufacturer backing as top teams, they could contend for championships.

“If he were to find and acquire the resources that the top teams are getting at Chevy, Toyota, and Ford, he would be able to develop his team into a successful team.”

Johnson’s hardworking mentality, ability to build key relationships, and drive to improve his organization make him a prime candidate to lead a manufacturer’s entry into NASCAR.

“He has that motivation, and he has that ability. He’s a wheeler and dealer. He’s a worker. He’s a connector. He’s a networker. He finds value and relationships that are valuable. The only thing really holding Jimmie back is genuine, top-tier manufacturer support. I think once he gets that, he will excel.”

Dale Jr.’s belief in his former Hendrick Motorsports teammate is clear—he expects Johnson to elevate LMC into a championship-caliber organization. But to do that, he needs manufacturer backing that puts him on equal footing with NASCAR’s powerhouses like Hendrick Motorsports, Joe Gibbs Racing, and Team Penske.


Will a Fourth OEM Finally Join NASCAR?

While NASCAR has been open about its desire for a fourth manufacturer, it’s still unclear who that manufacturer will be and when they’ll enter the sport. Brands like Dodge, Honda, and Nissan have been rumored as potential candidates, but no official announcement has been made.

However, Earnhardt Jr.’s comments suggest that when a new OEM does arrive, it will be looking for a flagship team—one that isn’t already locked into a long-term relationship with Chevrolet, Ford, or Toyota.

Could Legacy Motor Club be that team?

If Johnson aligns his team with a new manufacturer, it could reshape NASCAR’s competitive landscape, just as Joe Gibbs Racing did with Toyota in 2008.


What’s Next for Johnson & Legacy Motor Club?

Right now, Johnson and LMC are still adjusting to life under Toyota. But if the results don’t improve, the seven-time champion could explore other opportunities—especially if a new manufacturer promises top-tier support.

One thing is for sure: Dale Jr. sees big things ahead for his former teammate. And if his prediction proves correct, Johnson’s Legacy Motor Club could become the foundation of NASCAR’s next big manufacturer partnership.

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