@threewidewithjimmy: NASCAR legend Jimmie Johnson sent shockwaves through the garage today, February 14, 2026, by announcing that the 2027 Daytona 500 will be his final start in the NASCAR Cup Series. Speaking on ESPN’s Marty & McGee just twenty-four hours before the 68th running of "The Great American Race," the seven-time champion confirmed he will step away from the driver's seat at the premier level following next year's season opener. While he originally retired from full-time competition in 2020, this announcement sets a definitive finish line for his sporadic but celebrated return as a part-time owner-driver.  The decision is primarily driven by Johnson’s commitment to his role as the majority owner of Legacy Motor Club. Johnson noted that while he still possesses the competitive fire—highlighted by a vintage third-place finish in the 2025 Daytona 500—he feels his "clarity and energy" are now best served leading his organization from the pit box rather than the cockpit. By concluding his driving career in 2027, he intends to focus entirely on mentoring the team's young roster and overseeing the expansion of Legacy Motor Club, which is slated to move to a three-car full-time operation by the time he hangs up his helmet. Johnson’s final "bridge" season in 2026 will still feature a handful of high-profile starts, including a deeply personal homecoming at the inaugural Coronado Street Course race near his hometown of San Diego this June. As a two-time Daytona 500 winner with 83 career victories, Johnson emphasized that there was no other venue appropriate for his farewell than the high banks of Daytona. Even as he prepares to start his 23rd Daytona 500 tomorrow, the focus has already shifted to the 2027 finale, which promises to be one of the most emotional send-offs for a driver who defined a generation of dominance in the sport. #nascar #nascartiktok #nascarnews #daytona500 #jimmiejohnson

Three Wide with Jimmy

Open In TikTok:

Region: US

Saturday 14 February 2026 15:33:59 GMT