Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson has pushed back against rumours of his retirement ahead of his 700th Cup Series race start this weekend. Talking on the Rubbin' is Racing podcast, the racing legend has clarified his feelings on hanging up the race helmet.
With the upcoming Coca-Cola 600 being Johnson's 700th race since his Cup Series debut in 2001, rumours began to surface around the topic of his retirement. The 49-year-old has denied these claims.
"It really is just luck that the 700th start ends up at Charlotte and the track where I had my first start," he admitted. "I think we ran nine last year and once we started planning for this year in the Daytona 500, we realized 700 would be in Charlotte.
"I'm not a numbers guy, but I literally have not been paying attention to this. It would have been amazing to plan at being done at 700 or some element of, but that's really not the case."
The Legacy Motor Club co-owner continued, hinting at more racing even later this season:
"I hope I can get in the car a few more times this year if circumstances present themselves. And then next year and our evolution into a third car here at Legacy Motor Club.
Jimmie Johnson, Legacy Motor Club Toyota
Photo by: James Gilbert / Getty Images
"There's an option there where I could help build the team and so, we're looking at that as one of the many options which would then put me in the car a fair amount next year."
Earlier in the season, Johnson finished third at the Daytona 500. Bringing back memories of his 2013 win, the driver was overjoyed in an interview following the race.
"This feels incredible," he said. "I have emotions that I didn't expect to have. I've never been in this position as an owner, and it's really opened up a different set of emotions, and the pride that I have in this result and the pride that I have in this company."
This race win followed a tumultuous Next Gen career, finishing each of his races outside the top-25. This third-place finish made the struggle worth it.
Only 20 drivers have achieved 700 or more Cup starts. Kyle Busch is currently the only driver on the grid that will share this with Johnson after this weekend.
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