DAYTONA BEACH, FLORIDA – FEBRUARY 16: Jimmie Johnson, driver of the #84 Carvana Toyota reacts after the NASCAR Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 16, 2025 in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)
Getty Images
Seven-time Nascar Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson isn’t stepping away from the driver’s seat just yet.
The owner of Legacy Motor Club announced he will be returning to the No. 84 Toyota in 2026 for at least one race: his hometown event in San Diego. San Diego is hosting its first-ever Nascar weekend, set to be held at Naval Base Coronado on June 21, 2026. Carvana will sponsor Johnson once again.
“Growing up just miles from San Diego, I dreamed about racing here in a Nascar vehicle someday, but I never thought it would be possible. I just came to the realization that there would be no way Nascar could race in that city – as there would be nowhere to put a track,” Johnson said. “So, it’s just mind-blowing to me that Nascar made this a reality. To come back home, compete in front of my community, the military, my family, and friends, and do it with Carvana and Legacy Motor Club, this is one of those full-circle experiences I will never forget. It’s a lifelong dream.
“When I think about everything this sport has given me and where it all started, being able to race in San Diego at this level feels like my career has come full circle. Starting out on two wheels racing motorcycles throughout the west coast and now being able to race on four in the same region is something I never thought I would see. Additionally, my grandparents were military and are buried in Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery nearby the base, so it’s an honor to race there – this is going to be very special.”
Johnson competed in two events this year, including the Daytona 500, where he finished third. It was his first top five since departing from full-time competition and purchasing a stake in what is now known as Legacy Motor Club.
No other races for Johnson have been announced for 2026, and it is unknown if San Diego will be his last attempt behind the wheel of a Cup car.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/josephwolkin/2025/11/05/jimmie-johnson-to-compete-in-san-diegos-first-nascar-race/
