Jimmie Johnson, one of the most decorated drivers in NASCAR history, has officially set the date for his final Cup Series appearance. The seven-time champion announced Sunday that he will return to the track for the 2027 Daytona 500, driving the legendary No. 48 car that carried him to so many victories.
In a post on social media, Johnson expressed his gratitude to Rick Hendrick, Alex Bowman, and the entire Hendrick Motorsports and Ally Racing teams for making the moment possible. “One more race. One more incredible moment,” he wrote. “I never imagined this could happen. It’s a gesture I’ll carry with me forever.”
The announcement ends months of speculation about whether Johnson would ever grace a Cup Series grid again. While he has remained active in other racing ventures, including his role with Legacy Motor Club, this will be his first Cup start since retiring from full-time competition. The 2027 Daytona 500 will also be the first time Johnson has driven the No. 48 in a Cup race since his farewell tour in 2020.
Fans erupted with excitement across social media, with many calling the news a dream come true. “One incredible ride one more time,” one fan wrote. “Rick Hendrick is giving Jimmie Johnson the 48 for the 2027 Daytona 500! Alex Bowman should drive the 25 in the Daytona 500 I’m hoping.” Another fan simply added, “My inner child is so happy.”
The arrangement involves Bowman, currently the driver of the No. 48 for Hendrick Motorsports, stepping aside for the race. Speculation is already swirling about what number Bowman will use for that event, with the No. 25 emerging as a popular suggestion among fans. Johnson’s return also raises questions about how the No. 48 will be allocated between Hendrick and Legacy Motor Club, but the seven-time champion made it clear that the iconic number will be on his car for his farewell.
This final ride is more than just a sentimental journey. It’s a full-circle moment for Johnson, who won his first Daytona 500 in 2006 and added two more victories at the track during his career. His return in 2027 will be his first Daytona 500 start since 2020, and he will be 51 years old at the time of the race.
The news has also sparked comparisons to other high-profile returns in sports, such as Jon Gruden's return to the broadcast booth and the ongoing speculation around Aaron Donald's potential Rams return. But for NASCAR fans, this is the comeback they’ve been waiting for.
Johnson’s decision to make the 2027 Daytona 500 his final Cup start ensures that one of the sport’s greatest drivers will get a proper send-off on its biggest stage. The race is expected to draw massive attention, with merchandise and diecast models already being eagerly anticipated by collectors.
As the countdown to February 2027 begins, one thing is certain: Jimmie Johnson’s last lap in the No. 48 will be a moment NASCAR fans will never forget.
