Jimmie Johnson stepped onto the track at the Qualcomm Circuit in San Diego, California, for his first NASCAR Cup Series race since February, marking a rare appearance in the sport’s premier division.
The event was one of only two races he plans to compete in this season, a schedule that represents his lowest activity level since he missed the Cup Series entirely in 2021 and 2022.
Johnson, a seven‑time champion and co‑owner of Legacy Motor Club, brings a wealth of experience from previous campaigns in the NTT IndyCar Series and the Craftsman Truck Series, where he continues to test the limits of his versatility.
A careful wind‑down
The 2027 Daytona 500, the 69th running of the iconic race, is confirmed as his final Cup Series start, after which he intends to retire from full‑time competition, though he has hinted at occasional Truck Series entries thereafter.
His start number 703 will also serve as the last time the 83‑time race winner appears at NASCAR’s top level, closing a chapter that has defined modern American stock car racing.