Jimmie Johnson to Run Final NASCAR Race at Daytona

The seven-time champion will compete in his final Cup Series start at the 2027 Daytona 500.

Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Motorsports

Expressive sports illustration of a stock car racing on a banked track, using bold white and blue strokes to convey high-speed motion. — Seven-time NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson will make his final professional Cup Series start at the 2027 Daytona 500, piloting the No. 48. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson is set to make his final professional start at the 2027 Daytona 500. He will pilot the No. 48 car for Hendrick Motorsports in the event.

Why it matters

Johnson seeks to conclude his career at a track where he has achieved past success, viewing superspeedway racing as a venue that offers part-time drivers a competitive chance at victory. The arrangement brings the veteran back to a familiar team setup for one final outing.

Jimmie Johnson holds seven Cup Series championship titles and has secured two Daytona 500 victories in his career. He exited full-time competition in 2020 after amassing 83 total race wins.

The players

Jimmie Johnson

He is a seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion who retired from full-time racing in 2020.

Hendrick Motorsports

This is a prominent NASCAR racing organization that has secured multiple Cup Series championships.

Cliff Daniels

He is a veteran crew chief who began working with Johnson's team in 2014.

Kyle Larson

He is a two-time Cup Series champion currently under contract with Hendrick Motorsports through 2031.

The details

Johnson will reunite with the Hendrick Motorsports organization and the No. 48 team to facilitate his final race entry. The effort is supported by long-time partners including Ally.

Jimmie Johnson won the Daytona 500 in 2006.
Johnson secured his second Daytona 500 victory in 2013.
Cliff Daniels joined Johnson's team as a race engineer in 2014.
Daniels transitioned to the role of crew chief in 2019.
Johnson will make his final Cup Series start at the 2027 Daytona 500.

Season Trajectory

Johnson's return for the 2027 Daytona 500 signals a final exit from the sport's highest level of competition. This move highlights how legendary drivers manage their transition from full-time careers to selective, high-stakes appearances.

The entry confirms that Johnson will be included in the starting lineup for the 2027 Daytona 500. Fantasy racing participants and fans should note that Johnson will be driving the No. 48 car for Hendrick Motorsports.

The takeaway

Johnson's career illustrates how veterans leverage their historical success at specific tracks to maintain competitive relevance in limited appearances. Fans should appreciate the milestone of seeing a seven-time champion take the green flag one final time.