Jimmie Johnson Announces Final Daytona 500 Appearance in 2027

Jimmie Johnson has confirmed that he will make his final start in the NASCAR Cup Series during the 2027 Daytona 500. The announcement came on Saturday, just one day before the 69th edition of “The Great American Race.” The seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion expressed his sentiments about concluding his illustrious career at a venue where he has had significant success.

“Next February, I’ll make my final start in the Cup Series in Daytona,” said Johnson, who has previously claimed victory in the Daytona 500 in both 2013 and 2016. “I’ve been very fortunate to accomplish more than I ever imagined in this sport. The last six years have given me the freedom to choose where I compete and, more importantly, the clarity to understand where I’m needed most. It’s just time to focus my energy on building a world-class and unrivaled organization in Legacy Motor Club.”

Legacy Motor Club, where Johnson serves as the majority owner, is poised for growth as he shifts his focus away from full-time racing. Although Johnson, now 50, will conclude his participation in the Cup Series, he has left the possibility open for competing in other NASCAR national series beyond 2027. His career has included an impressive 83 Cup Series victories, marking him as one of the sport’s greatest drivers.

Johnson’s decision to retire from full-time competition followed the 2020 season, during which he transitioned to a partial schedule. His most recent victory occurred in 2017, underscoring a remarkable career that has spanned over two decades. In the 2025 Daytona 500, Johnson finished in third place, further solidifying his status as a competitive force in the series.

Tyler Gibbs, president of Toyota Racing Development USA, praised Johnson’s impact on the sport. “Jimmie Johnson is a champion in every aspect of his life — with his family, as the leader of Legacy Motor Club, and with his incredible success behind the wheel,” Gibbs remarked. “As he prepares to close the chapter of his iconic on-track NASCAR career, we celebrate his legacy in the sport and look forward to what we’ll continue to achieve together in the years to come.”

Johnson’s journey through NASCAR has been marked not only by his racing accomplishments but also by his leadership and commitment to the sport. As he prepares for his final race at Daytona International Speedway, fans and fellow competitors alike are expected to celebrate his contributions to NASCAR and the indelible mark he has left on the racing community.

Looking ahead, the 2027 Daytona 500 promises to be a significant event, not only for Johnson but also for the many who have followed his career. As he embarks on this new chapter, Johnson’s focus on Legacy Motor Club indicates a commitment to fostering the next generation of drivers and expanding his legacy beyond the racetrack.