NASCAR: Where Should Jimmie Johnson Compete In 2021?

Jimmie Johnson retired from full-time competition, but the seven-time NASCAR champion has left the door open for a NASCAR deal next year, albeit on a part-time basis. Fans in Colorado will have an opportunity to bet on the sport after Online betting in Colorado was permitted through legislation.

The number of races that Jimmie Johnson could participate in is limited. Here are some of the most probable races that would make sense to take part in.

Daytona 500

Daytona 500 is The Great American Race scheduled to take place on February 14 before the start of the IndyCar season. It will be convenient for Johnson, who is set to run the 13 road and street course races on the NTT IndyCar series schedule. He will represent Chip Ganassi Racing (CGR).

Furthermore, pack racing makes Daytona a good equalizer and presents Johnson a better opportunity to win if races in a one-off team. The prestige of this event is an enormous draw also.

Because Johnson is scheduled to race for CGR in IndyCar and they have two cup cars only, there is a chance for a third car to participate at the odd event. Johnson has a good record at the tournament with two wins, seven top-five finishes, and an average finish of 19.63 in 19 starts.

Bristol Motor Speedway Dirt Race

This race, which will take place on Sunday, March 28 would be less practical for Johnson. Several factors about the race make it less attractive for CGR. First, it is the inaugural race; it will require additional preparation, and the tournament might feature heat races. Nevertheless, since Johnson has a background in dirt racing, the prospect of participating in the first dirt race for the Cup Series since 1970 would attract his attention.

The Coca Cola 600 at Charlotte Speedway

This race could catch Johnson’s attention mainly because of its crown jewel status and closeness to home. Furthermore, his record at the race is also excellent. He has managed to win it four times, finished in the top five seven times, and averages 15.05 in 600 starts. He also has four other wins in the fall race at Charlotte. Even though the race will take place on Sunday, May 30, when the Indy 500 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway will be happening, it won’t affect Johnson’s IndyCar races because he does not run any IndyCar oval races in 2021.

NASCAR-IndyCar Doubleheader at Motor Speedway Road Course

This would be another excellent opportunity for Johnson in August. He is listed to participate in the open-wheel race at the same venue on Saturday, August 14, and could race in a third CGR stock car on Sunday.

Apart from the chance to do a double, he will be already at the venue. Furthermore, it is the only venue he missed in 2020 due to his COVID 19 diagnosis. His previous record at the Indianapolis oval includes four wins and six top-five finishes. However, he only has one win, and he finished in the top five nine times in 40 road course events in his career.

Greg Engle