Seven-Time Champion Jimmie Johnson Set to Compete in Inaugural NASCAR San Diego Street Race

NASCAR’s highly anticipated return to Southern California will feature a significant star power as seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson has confirmed his participation in the inaugural street race event scheduled for June 19-21 at Naval Base Coronado in San Diego. This historic occasion marks the first time NASCAR’s premier series will race on an active military installation, and Johnson, a native of the region, expressed profound personal connection to the venue and the opportunity.

Johnson, who co-owns Legacy Motor Club, will pilot the No. 84 Toyota Camry XSE, backed by Carvana, on the newly unveiled 3.4-mile road course. The track layout, which navigates through the scenic and operational areas of the naval base, promises a unique challenge for competitors and a visually striking backdrop for the event. The San Diego street race is poised to be a landmark event for NASCAR, aiming to broaden its appeal and engage new fan bases while honoring the military community.

For Johnson, the prospect of racing in his home area carries immense personal significance. "Growing up just miles from San Diego, I dreamed about racing here in a NASCAR vehicle someday, but I never thought it would be possible," Johnson stated in a release from his team. "I just came to the realization that there would be nowhere to put a track in that city. So, it’s just mind-blowing to me that NASCAR made this a reality. To come back home, compete in front of my community, the military, my family, and friends, and do it with Carvana and Legacy Motor Club, this is one of those full-circle experiences I will never forget. It’s a lifelong dream."

Johnson further elaborated on the deeply personal resonance of the event. "When I think about everything this sport has given me and where it all started, being able to race in San Diego at this level feels like my career has come full circle," he continued. "Starting out on two wheels racing motorcycles throughout the West Coast and now being able to race on four in the same region is something I never thought I would see. Additionally, my grandparents were military and are buried in Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery nearby the base, so it’s an honor to race there – this is going to be very special."

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The inclusion of Johnson in the San Diego event underscores his continued commitment to racing beyond his full-time Cup Series career, which concluded with his record-tying seven championships. Since stepping away from full-time competition, Johnson has pursued a diverse range of racing endeavors. He has notably competed in prestigious endurance races such as the Rolex 24 at Daytona and the 24 Hours of Le Mans, showcasing his versatility and adaptability across different motorsport disciplines. His international racing experience also includes participation in the Indianapolis 500, a crown jewel event in American open-wheel racing. In a memorable demonstration of his broad skillset, Johnson also engaged in a driver swap with two-time Formula 1 World Champion Fernando Alonso in Bahrain, where he had the opportunity to pilot an F1 car.

Despite his transition to a team ownership role with Legacy Motor Club, Johnson has maintained a part-time presence in the NASCAR Cup Series. His recent appearances have been marked by strong performances. In the 2025 Daytona 500, he achieved an impressive third-place finish, a testament to his enduring competitiveness. This was followed by his 700th career Cup Series start in the Coca-Cola 600 later that season. While that particular race ended prematurely due to an early incident, it marked his most recent outing at the pinnacle of NASCAR competition.

The San Diego street race is set to be a significant event on the NASCAR calendar, not only for its novel location and challenging circuit but also for the caliber of talent it is attracting. The decision to host a race at Naval Base Coronado highlights a growing trend in motorsport to explore unconventional venues, bringing the racing experience to diverse and often unexpected locations. For Johnson, this particular race represents a confluence of personal history, professional achievement, and a deep-seated connection to the military community he will be honoring.

The event will feature all three of NASCAR’s national divisions, providing a comprehensive showcase of the sport’s talent across different tiers. The specific details of the race weekend, including practice sessions, qualifying, and the main events for the Cup Series, Xfinity Series, and Truck Series, are expected to be released in the coming months. The 3.4-mile circuit at Naval Base Coronado is designed to test drivers’ skills with a mix of high-speed straights and technical cornering sections, offering potential for exciting on-track battles.

Johnson’s decision to participate reinforces his status as one of NASCAR’s most iconic figures. His career achievements, including 83 Cup Series wins and 16 straight seasons with at least one win, have cemented his legacy in the sport. His continued involvement in racing, even after achieving such a high level of success and transitioning to team ownership, speaks to his passion for competition and his desire to remain an active participant in the evolution of motorsport. The San Diego street race presents a unique opportunity for fans to see a legend compete on home soil, in an event that promises to be memorable for its historical significance and personal narrative.

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