7-time NASCAR champion, Jimmie Johnson has plans to retire from the sport
Jimmie Johnson is tied with Richard Petty and Dale Earnhardt for the most all-time NASCAR championships, seven.
Johnson joined the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series in 2001. He’s spent his entire career with Hendrick Motorsports.
Following the 2018 season, Jimmie Johnson and his long-time crew chief, Chad Knaus parted ways. Kevin Meendering became the replacement as Knaus moved over to work with the young driver of William Byron.
In the middle of the 2019 season, Cliff Daniels was promoted to the crew chief roll.
And that’s where he’ll end his career. Johnson released a video announcing that 2020 will be his final season.
Jimmie Johnson comments on retirement
“I’m so thankful for 18 incredible years of racing in NASCAR,” Johnson said.
“The sport has been good to me. It has allowed me to do something I truly love. I showed up chasing a dream and achieved more than I ever thought possible.”
“I’m looking forward to next season and celebrating what will be my last year as a full-time NASCAR Cup driver. I know what this team is capable of, and I hope 2020 is one of the best yet.”
“I get to say when I’m done,” Johnson told reporters ahead of the 2019 season, noting his detractors who hinted he should place his driving gloves on the shelf.”
“It did weigh on me and I can’t wait to win and win often. I think that would be something really nice to say back to all those people that suggested that I was washed up and done.”
Jimmie Johnson accomplishments
Johnson came from off-road trucks to an asphalt oval career. In 1998, he was crowned the ASA National Tour Rookie of the Year and found success in NASCAR soon after.
NASCAR Championships: 2016, 2013, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006.
Daytona 500 Winner: 2013, 2006.
Driver of the Year: 2013, 2010, 2009, 2007, 2006.
Johnson has run 651 NASCAR Cup Series races to date. He’s collected 83 wins along the way. His last win came in 2017, he picked up three wins that year.
However, Johnson did pick up a win in preliminary action this year at Daytona International Speedway.
Adding to the list of accomplishments, Johnson has 1 win after his 93 races in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
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