Seven-Time Champion Jimmie Johnson Set for Historic Return to San Diego on Inaugural NASCAR Street Course

San Diego, CA – In a move that has ignited excitement throughout the motorsport community, seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson has officially confirmed his participation in the inaugural NASCAR street race set to unfold on the grounds of Naval Base Coronado in San Diego from June 19-21. This landmark event marks a significant moment for NASCAR, as it will be the first time any of its national divisions compete on an active military installation, adding a layer of patriotic significance to the already anticipated race.

Johnson, a proud California native, will pilot the No. 84 Toyota Camry XSE for his own Legacy Motor Club team. The entry will carry the sponsorship of Carvana, a familiar partner for the legendary driver. The 3.4-mile temporary road course, meticulously designed to weave through the scenic and historic Naval Base Coronado, promises a unique challenge for the drivers and a visually spectacular backdrop for the event.

The announcement resonated deeply with Johnson, who expressed his profound connection to the San Diego area. "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, so it’s 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’s sentiment underscores the extraordinary nature of the San Diego street race. For decades, the idea of a major NASCAR event in the city seemed improbable due to the lack of suitable permanent facilities. The innovative solution of utilizing Naval Base Coronado not only brings NASCAR to a new and significant market but also honors the servicemen and women who are integral to the nation’s defense.

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The driver’s personal connection to the military further amplifies the emotional weight of this 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," Johnson 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."

Johnson’s illustrious career is a testament to his enduring passion and skill. Since stepping away from full-time Cup Series competition, the 49-year-old has actively pursued a diverse range of motorsport endeavors, demonstrating his versatility and commitment to the sport. His post-full-time racing career has included prestigious international endurance races such as the Daytona 24 and the 24 Hours of Le Mans, showcasing his adaptability to different racing disciplines. Furthermore, he famously participated in a driver swap with Formula 1 star Fernando Alonso in Bahrain, where he had the opportunity to pilot a McLaren MP4-28 Formula 1 car, a testament to his broad appeal and respect within the global motorsport landscape.

Despite transitioning to a team ownership role with Legacy Motor Club, Johnson has not entirely forsaken the competitive arena. He has made select starts in the NASCAR Cup Series, most notably achieving an impressive third-place finish in the 2025 Daytona 500. This remarkable performance came just months before he marked his 700th career Cup Series start in the Coca-Cola 600. While that particular race ended prematurely due to an early incident, it represented his most recent foray into Cup Series competition, highlighting his continued ability to contend at the highest level.

The inclusion of Johnson, a figure synonymous with NASCAR excellence, in this groundbreaking event is a significant draw. His seven Cup Series championships (2006-2010, 2013, 2016) place him in an elite echelon of drivers, and his return to his home state to compete on such a unique circuit is a narrative tailor-made for motorsport history. Legacy Motor Club, co-owned by Johnson, has been steadily building its presence in the Cup Series, and this event provides a high-profile platform to showcase their development and commitment to the sport.

The San Diego street race is poised to be a pivotal moment for NASCAR’s ongoing efforts to expand its reach and engage new fan bases. The strategic decision to host the event on a military base not only offers a unique operational environment but also provides an opportunity to connect with a demographic that often supports the armed forces. The 3.4-mile circuit is expected to feature a blend of high-speed straights and technical cornering sections, demanding precision and adaptability from the drivers. NASCAR has released detailed layouts of the course, which aim to maximize the visual appeal and on-track action for both spectators and television audiences.

The weekend of June 19-21 will see all three of NASCAR’s national divisions – the Cup Series, Xfinity Series, and Truck Series – in action, providing a comprehensive showcase of the sport. For Jimmie Johnson, this appearance represents more than just another race; it’s a deeply personal homecoming and a chance to be part of a truly historic occasion, fulfilling a childhood dream against the backdrop of American military pride. His presence undoubtedly elevates the profile of the inaugural San Diego event, promising a memorable chapter in NASCAR’s storied history.