Jimmie Johnson to Drive No. 48 for Final Daytona 500 Start

Key Takeaways

• Jimmie Johnson will drive the No. 48 for one final time in next year’s Daytona 500.
• The number 48 decals will be applied to a Toyota for the first time.
• NASCAR has approved the one-race loan, which will have no bearing on owner or driver points in the 2027 season.
• Alex Bowman will race his final Daytona 500 as a full-time driver under a spare number.
• Johnson’s final Cup Series start will be a sentimental sendoff, honoring his 19-year career with Hendrick Motorsports.

What’s Behind the Number 48?

The number 48 is synonymous with Jimmie Johnson’s success, bringing home a record-tying seven championships during his time with Hendrick Motorsports.

Johnson drove the No. 48 HMS Chevrolet for the majority of his career, earning 83 wins over 19 years.

The number 48 represents people, relationships, memories, and a chapter of Johnson’s life that shaped who he is.

How Did This Come Together?

Rick Hendrick and Jimmie Johnson announced the sentimental sendoff during TNT Sports pre-race ahead of the Brickyard 400 on Sunday afternoon.

The agreement involves cooperation between Hendrick Motorsports, Legacy Motorsports, Chevrolet, Toyota, Ally Bank, and Johnson himself.

This marks the first time the number 48 decals will be applied to a Toyota, as Johnson’s team, Legacy Motor Club, transitioned from Chevrolets to Toyotas in 2024.

What Does This Mean for Alex Bowman?

Alex Bowman is set to race his final Daytona 500 as a full-time driver under a spare number.

Bowman announced his early retirement from the sport this Thursday following several racing injuries and long recoveries.

The 34-year-old driver will make way for Johnson to drive the No. 48 for one final time.

What’s the Significance of This Event?

This event is a sentimental sendoff, honoring Johnson’s 19-year career with Hendrick Motorsports.

Johnson’s final Cup Series start will be a celebration of his achievements and a nod to his legacy in the sport.

The event will have no bearing on owner or driver points in the 2027 season, as NASCAR has approved the one-race loan.

How Does This Reflect on Johnson’s Career?

Johnson’s career is marked by his dominance in the No. 48 HMS Chevrolet, earning 83 wins over 19 years.

His final Cup Series start will be a testament to his dedication and perseverance in the sport.

Johnson’s legacy will continue to be celebrated, as he takes one final lap in the No. 48.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is Jimmie Johnson driving the No. 48 for one final time?

Johnson is driving the No. 48 for one final time as a sentimental sendoff, honoring his 19-year career with Hendrick Motorsports.

Q: What’s the significance of the number 48?

The number 48 is synonymous with Jimmie Johnson’s success, bringing home a record-tying seven championships during his time with Hendrick Motorsports.

Q: Who is involved in the agreement to loan the No. 48?

The agreement involves cooperation between Hendrick Motorsports, Legacy Motorsports, Chevrolet, Toyota, Ally Bank, and Jimmie Johnson himself.