Seven-time NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson will be taking a break from competition full-time to spend time with his family.
The news was first reported on Monday by Related press and was later confirmed by Johnson via social media.
Johnson retired from NASCAR after 2020 and has since mainly competed in IndyCar with Chip Ganassi Racing, although he did not find as many successors in the new venture as his old one, he finished in second. 5 with the best record.
However, Johnson’s racing career is nothing short of historic. He holds the record for most consecutive Cup Series championships (years, from 2006 to 2010). He scored sixth in 2013 and seventh in 2016. He is one of only three drivers to have seven Cup Series titles; the other is the late Richard Petty and Dale Earnhardt. Like Petty and Earnhardt, Johnson has won all seven championships racing for the same team — in his case driving Hendrick Motorsports’ Chevrolet No. 48.
I couldn’t have asked for a better experience in @Indycar series. Going forward, I won’t be returning to INDYCAR full time in 2023 but will continue to look for new ways to challenge myself and participate in bucket list events. Listen more: https://t.co/H3e7X6PTLG pic.twitter.com/0kujpWdCaw
– Jimmie Johnson (@JimmieJohnson) September 26, 2022
Johnson’s farewell message leaves the possibility of racing in another series or returning for special events, such as his repeat appearance at 2022 Goodwood Revival. Johnson is 47 years old, and may have some gas left in the tank if the right opportunity arises.
One possibility is modified driving Racing Cars Next Generation NASCAR in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2023. Hendrick Motorsports plans to import the car as a special Garage 56 entry.
Another possibility for Johnson is a place in one of the lower divisions of the IMSA SportsCar Championship or the FIA World Endurance Championship, although nothing has been decided yet.
Johnson told Related press A decision on his racing future will be made in the coming months.
