Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson recently responded to a playful jab from NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal about his upcoming Daytona 500 entry. O’Neal teased on social media:
“Dang, @jimmiejohnson going for another Daytona?! 22 years not enough for you?”
Johnson humorously fired back:
“You know it, @SHAQ! I’ve still got the drive. What about you, how’s that jump shot these days?”
Johnson is gearing up for a big year in 2025, which includes competing in both the Daytona 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte. If all goes according to plan, the veteran driver could celebrate his 700th career Cup Series start at Charlotte. Driving the No. 84 car for Legacy Motor Club, with sponsorship from Carvana, Johnson aims to make his mark once again. To commemorate his milestone, Carvana is planning a special livery for his race at Charlotte.
Johnson’s NASCAR career is legendary. He shares the record for most Cup Series championships with icons Richard Petty and Dale Earnhardt. Since his debut with Hendrick Motorsports, Johnson has achieved 83 wins and over 230 top-five finishes across 698 races, cementing his place among the sport’s greatest drivers.
Despite his decorated career, Johnson was excluded from the new Open Exemption Provisional rule for the 2025 Daytona 500. The spot instead went to four-time Indianapolis 500 winner Helio Castroneves. This decision sparked fan outrage, as many believed Johnson’s accomplishments warranted the exemption.
NASCAR veteran Kenny Wallace weighed in, acknowledging Johnson’s legendary status but suggesting Castroneves brings more excitement:
“Jimmie Johnson’s a seven-time NASCAR champion. He knows how to drive these cars. But as sad as it is to say, I think… Jimmie Johnson is a legend, but he’s just not going to draw the crowd that Helio Castroneves would. That’s my opinion… Now, that’s a cold hard fact, and I know that’s hard to hear.”
As anticipation builds for the Daytona 500, fans eagerly await Johnson’s return to the track and his pursuit of further milestones. Whether he’s racing toward his 700th start or defending his legacy, Johnson’s dedication continues to inspire.
