DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Jimmie Johnson experienced a whirlwind of emotions as he emerged from his No. 84 Toyota at Daytona International Speedway on Sunday night. For the seven-time NASCAR champion and two-time Daytona 500 winner, the feelings were a mix of relief and excitement.
In a remarkable conclusion to the Daytona 500, Johnson earned a commendable third-place finish, trailing only William Byron and Tyler Reddick. This performance marked his best result in the prestigious race since his last win in 2013 and tied his top finish in the Cup Series since stepping back from full-time racing in 2020. Despite facing challenges during the rain-delayed event, which included a notable visit from President Donald Trump, the outcome was profoundly meaningful for Johnson. It represented a significant moment, being his first year as the majority owner of Legacy Motor Club, and highlighted a solid performance from his drivers, John Hunter Nemechek and Erik Jones.
Nemechek finished fifth in the No. 42 Toyota, contributing to Legacy’s impressive showing with two cars in the top five, while Jones secured the 12th position. Johnson reflected on his experience post-race: “I have emotions that I didn’t expect to have. I’ve never been in this position as an owner. It’s really a different set of emotions. The pride that I have in this resolve and the pride I have in this company, knowing what we’re trying to achieve and the journey we’re on, I am so satisfied, so happy right now.”
Following an offseason restructuring that made him the majority owner after a private equity firm invested in the team, Johnson stepped into his role with renewed commitment. He leveraged his friendship with NBA star Shaquille O’Neal, who contributed to the No. 84 Toyota’s paint scheme for the Daytona 500.
“I love racing,” Johnson remarked. “A long time ago, my give-a-(hoot) meter broke, and I’m not here for me. I know other people have different opinions. But I’m not here for me.” In a unique twist, Johnson skipped last week’s NASCAR Hall of Fame ceremony to promote his car at a carnival-themed Super Bowl party hosted by O’Neal. During the event, the two unveiled the car in front of cameras and participated in a free-throw shooting challenge.
On race day, Johnson showcased his racing skills, displaying that he still has plenty of speed left in him. “Absolutely,” he joked. “The situation I’m in, being a recent team owner and driving my own equipment, it was just something I didn’t have on my bingo card growing up and I never dreamed of. Those emotions are just new, and I guess that’s why I’m still doing this — to experience new things.”
After starting the final lap in 15th place, Johnson successfully maneuvered his way past a dozen competitors, some of whom were involved in crashes, during the last 2.5 miles on the iconic track. Nemechek commented, “Jimmie blew my doors off. I don’t think he ever lifted.”
Although Shaquille O’Neal was unable to be present in the pits due to All-Star game commitments, his oversized firesuit was still a part of the team’s atmosphere during the race. Johnson quipped, “I hope Shaq is watching. Thank you, buddy. We got your car in the top three. It’s been an interesting couple of years, and to have our cars come out and be this strong — this Toyota was rocket-ship fast — I’m just smiling inside now.”
