Jimmie Johnson, the seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and co-owner of Legacy Motor Club (LMC), has confirmed that he will be back behind the wheel for multiple races in the 2025 season. After a two-year stint in IndyCar, Johnson made his return to NASCAR in 2023, but the veteran driver has yet to recapture the magic that once made him one of the most dominant forces in the sport.
Despite the struggles on the track, Johnson remains committed to racing and believes there’s more he can contribute to the sport. In a recent interview following his part-time run at Las Vegas, where he finished 28th, Johnson revealed his plans to continue racing in the No. 84 Toyota Camry next season, although his exact schedule is still being worked out.
“We’re learning a lot. Getting our car put together, getting our program together,” Johnson said. “We don’t have it put together yet, but I’ll be out there a few times at least.” The key, he emphasized, is ensuring that his racing ventures don’t detract from the team’s primary focus—the No. 42 and No. 43 cars. “We’re just trying to make sure that it’s not costing the team anything. It’s not hurting the 42 and 43.”
Since his return to NASCAR, Johnson has faced challenges adapting to the new generation car, failing to secure a top-20 finish in the No. 84. The veteran has acknowledged that adjusting to the handling and driving style of the modern race cars has been difficult, but he is confident that he’s slowly getting the hang of it.
“Where you make speed in this car for a long, long time… it’s not the case with this car. There’s a much different approach to corner entry and how you roll out of the drop and control the car,” Johnson explained. “I’m slowly getting the hang of that.”
Before the 2024 season wraps up, Johnson will make one final appearance at the Phoenix Raceway season finale. He’s hoping to finish strong, which would give him a boost of confidence heading into 2025. As he continues his role as both driver and team co-owner, Johnson remains focused on striking the balance between his racing ambitions and the overall success of the Legacy Motor Club.
Though his performances have yet to live up to his past dominance, Johnson’s passion for racing hasn’t waned. Fans can expect to see him back on the track next season, ready to prove he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level.
