Jimmie Johnson Announces Final Daytona 500 Start

Jimmie Johnson will make his final Daytona 500 start in 2027. The seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion announced this on Saturday.

What happened?

Jimmie Johnson made his intentions known one day before the 69th running of "The Great American Race."

He stated: "Next February, I'll make my final start in the Cup Series in Daytona."

Why it matters for Jimmie Johnson

Jimmie Johnson has been very fortunate to accomplish more than he ever imagined in this sport.

The last six years have given him the freedom to choose where he competes and more importantly, the clarity to understand where he's needed most.

What comes next?

Jimmie Johnson left the door open to competing in other NASCAR national series beyond 2027.

He is the majority owner of Legacy Motor Club and wants to focus his energy on building a world-class organization.

Jimmie Johnson won the Daytona 500 in 2016 and 2013, and he finished third in 2025.

Tyler Gibbs, president of Toyota Racing Development USA, praised Jimmie Johnson, saying he is a champion in every aspect of his life.

Jimmie Johnson, 50, has raced a partial Cup Series schedule for the past few years.

His last victory came in 2017.

Jimmie Johnson retired from full-time competition after the 2020 season.

He has 83 Cup Series wins and is a two-time Daytona 500 champion.