Hendrick Motorsports announced that Jimmie Johnson will take the wheel of his iconic No. 48 Chevrolet for what will be his final start in the NASCAR Cup Series, a one‑off appearance at the 2027 Daytona 500.
A Career Defined by Dominance
The move marks the culmination of a career that saw Johnson win seven championships, a record that placed him among the sport’s all‑time greats. After stepping away from full‑time competition in 2020, Johnson has remained active in part‑time dates, but the Daytona 500 will represent a symbolic full‑circle moment.
Alex Bowman, who has been piloting the No. 48 for the past several seasons, will relinquish the car for that historic race, allowing Johnson to reclaim the number that defined his championship years.
In a statement released on July 26, Johnson thanked team owner Rick Hendrick and sponsor Ally Motorsports for making the reunion possible, saying he was “grateful for the opportunity to finish what we started together.”
Rick Hendrick, founder of Hendrick Motorsports, highlighted the emotional resonance of the moment for fans and the sport, noting that the 2027 Daytona 500 will be staged under the bright lights of Daytona International Speedway, a venue where Johnson has left an indelible mark.