The seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion is returning to the No. 84 Toyota Camry for another start in 2026. Jimmie Johnson has announced he will take on a bucket list event by his hometown.
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Johnson announced the news on Nov. 5 while taking part at Brandweek in Atlanta, Georgia. He confirmed his intentions to race in the inaugural Cup Series race on Naval Base Coronado on June 21, 2026. He will have Carvana as his primary partner for the historic race weekend.
Seven-Time’s back in SoCal. ☀️
We’ll see you in Coronado, @JimmieJohnson! pic.twitter.com/4Y0hsLI6w9
— NASCAR San Diego (@NASCARSanDiego) November 5, 2025
"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 said in a press release. "I just came to the realization that there would be no way NASCAR could race in that city - as 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."
This bucket list race announcement caps off a months-long quest for Johnson. Back in July, he held a press conference immediately after NASCAR revealed it would take all three national series to San Diego in 2026.
It was during this press conference that Johnson confirmed he would "aggressively pursue" the opportunity to compete on Naval Base Coronado. He also said that it coincided with an important anniversary in his life.
"Obviously it's new news, but the desire to race in my hometown is off the charts," Johnson told assembled media in July. "I will aggressively work on being in the event. If for some reason I'm not able to pull that off, I will absolutely be there and help support Legacy Motor Club, all of our partners, NASCAR, the city.
"We're also coming up on our 20th anniversary for the Jimmie Johnson foundation, which will be next year. I see a really neat opportunity for me to come home and really be a part of the festivities in this the event."
Johnson did not know at the time if he would have the opportunity to compete in the San Diego street race. Months later, he has moved one step closer to his goal. Now the only question remains is whether he will have to beat out any other cars during qualifying or if he will have to request the provisional that guarantees a spot in the field.
