SAN DIEGO, CA – In a move that has generated significant buzz within the motorsports community, seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson has officially confirmed his participation in NASCAR’s inaugural street race, scheduled to take place from June 19-21 at Naval Base Coronado in San Diego. This landmark event marks the first time NASCAR’s three national divisions will compete on a course situated on an active military installation. Johnson, a California native and co-owner of Legacy Motor Club, will pilot the No. 84 Toyota Camry XSE on the challenging 3.4-mile road course, with support from Carvana.
The announcement has been met with considerable excitement, particularly from Johnson himself, who expressed his profound connection to the event. "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 team release. "I just came to the realization that there would be nowhere to put a track. 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’s sentiment underscores the unique significance of this race. The San Diego street circuit, winding through the scenic and historically rich grounds of Naval Base Coronado, offers a stark contrast to the ovals that have defined much of NASCAR’s recent history. The inclusion of a military base as the venue adds another layer of historical importance, honoring the service members and their families.
The seven-time champion, who recently celebrated his 50th birthday, has continued to pursue diverse racing endeavors since stepping away from full-time Cup Series competition. His post-full-time career has been marked by a series of high-profile participations in various prestigious motorsport disciplines. These include appearances in the iconic 24 Hours of Daytona and the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance races, as well as competing in the Indianapolis 500. Furthermore, Johnson experienced a memorable ride-swap with Formula 1 driver Fernando Alonso in Bahrain, where he had the opportunity to drive an F1 McLaren MP4-28 car, showcasing his versatility and enduring passion for motorsports.
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Despite transitioning to a part-time role and focusing on team ownership with Legacy Motor Club, Johnson has demonstrated that his competitive spirit remains undimmed. His performance in the 2025 Daytona 500, where he secured an impressive third-place finish, highlighted his continued ability to contend at the highest level. Following that strong run, he achieved a significant career milestone by making his 700th Cup Series start in the Coca-Cola 600. While that particular race ended prematurely due to an early incident, it marked his most recent foray into Cup Series competition.
Johnson’s connection to San Diego runs deep, extending beyond his childhood dreams of racing in the city. He shared that his grandparents were military personnel and are interred at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, a location near the race venue. This personal connection amplifies the emotional weight of competing on the naval base. "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 reflected. "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."
The introduction of the San Diego street race represents a bold new chapter for NASCAR, signaling a willingness to innovate and explore unconventional venues. The 3.4-mile circuit is designed to challenge drivers with a mix of tight turns, sweeping corners, and potentially high-speed sections, offering a different dynamic compared to traditional oval tracks. The strategic layout, unveiled previously, promises an engaging spectacle for both drivers and fans. The event is expected to draw significant attention, not only for its novelty but also for the opportunity to witness established stars and emerging talents navigate a unique and demanding course.
For Legacy Motor Club, this race presents a valuable opportunity to showcase their capabilities and brand on a national stage, particularly with a driver of Johnson’s caliber at the helm. As a co-owner, Johnson’s presence in the driver’s seat adds a compelling narrative to the team’s season. The partnership with Carvana, a prominent automotive retailer, further strengthens the team’s resources and visibility.
The presence of Johnson in the San Diego street race is particularly noteworthy given his extensive experience on road courses throughout his illustrious career. While primarily known for his dominance on ovals, Johnson has achieved numerous victories and strong performances on road circuits, demonstrating a well-rounded skillset. His adaptability and technical prowess will be crucial in mastering the intricacies of the Coronado street course.
As the June dates approach, anticipation for this historic NASCAR event continues to build. The combination of a groundbreaking venue, the return of a legendary champion to his home region, and the inherent excitement of a street race promises a memorable weekend of competition for motorsports enthusiasts and the San Diego community alike. The race at Naval Base Coronado is poised to become a significant moment in NASCAR’s ongoing evolution, offering a unique blend of sport, patriotism, and community engagement.
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