TNT Sports announced that seven‑time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson will join its studio lineup as a race analyst for the upcoming In‑Season Challenge. Johnson’s first appearance is slated for June 28, when the series heads to Sonoma Raceway for the Toyota/Save Mart 350.
A Legendary Addition
The In‑Season Challenge is a five‑race, single‑elimination format that sits in the middle of the Cup Series schedule, giving the network a concentrated summer window to showcase the sport.
Alongside Johnson, ESPN veteran Marty Smith will serve as the tournament’s pre‑ and post‑race host, anchoring coverage with a roster that includes Dale Earnhardt Jr., Steve Letarte and Jamie McMurray.
When Johnson is not on‑air, former driver Jeff Burton will step in as studio analyst for the events at Chicagoland Speedway on July 5 and EchoPark Speedway in Georgia on July 12, ensuring continuous expert commentary throughout the tournament.
TNT’s return to NASCAR coverage last season was part of the sport’s new media‑rights package, and the network has positioned the In‑Season Challenge as the centerpiece of its summer schedule, running through the championship round at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on July 26.
Johnson expressed excitement about the new role, saying he looks forward to sharing his passion for NASCAR with fans and fellow analysts. His involvement marks a significant milestone for TNT Sports as it seeks to deepen its motorsport credentials.