After retiring from NASCAR in 2020, Jimmie Johnson embarked on a new racing chapter by competing full-time in IndyCar with Chip Ganassi Racing during the 2021 and 2022 seasons. His standout performance came at the 2022 Iowa Speedway race, where he moved from a 12th-place start to finish fifth, and he also led two laps in the prestigious Indianapolis 500. Another notable finish was sixth place at Texas, marking his best results in the open-wheel series.
Decision to Step Back: Physical Demands Play a Major Role
In September 2022, Johnson announced he would not continue in IndyCar full-time for the 2023 season. Although this decision coincided with his acquisition of a stake in Legacy Motor Club later that year, Johnson has since revealed the intense physical toll IndyCar racing exacted on him. On The Racer podcast with Paul Tracy, Johnson candidly discussed how the demands exceeded his expectations.
“I couldn’t believe the physicality of the IndyCar. And you talk about no power steering and the implications of that, but man, the high heart rate stuff that I had to do to get ready, like the first offseason getting ready, and I used gym leo pit fit, I’m like, do I really need to do this much?”
—Jimmie Johnson, Racing Driver
“I went to I think my first test at Barber is when I realized the physical requirements and the intensity, the high heart rate intensity that went with it. Just such a physical challenge in those cars. Even hitting the brake pedal like we don’t have any brake pedal assist in IndyCars. So yeah, that 1400-1600 PSI, I mean, you’re generating that through your leg.”
—Jimmie Johnson, Racing Driver
Current Focus: Building Legacy Motor Club and Limited NASCAR Appearances
Since stepping back from IndyCar, Johnson has only sporadically returned to NASCAR Cup Series events, appearing in just two races this season compared to nine last year. His primary commitment is now as a team owner of Legacy Motor Club, which recently switched to Toyota as its manufacturer and formed an alliance with Joe Gibbs Racing. As Johnson focuses on strengthening his team, these strategic moves aim to establish a competitive foundation in NASCAR’s top series.
Johnson’s reduced driving schedule combined with his leadership role offers a unique opportunity for him to stay connected with fans through occasional NASCAR appearances while nurturing Legacy Motor Club’s growth.
The Lasting Impact of IndyCar’s Physical Challenge on Johnson’s Career
Jimmie Johnson’s experience highlights the intense physicality required for IndyCar racing, especially in managing vehicles without power steering and high brake pressure demands. This physical challenge influenced his career trajectory as he shifted priorities toward team ownership. As Legacy Motor Club evolves, Johnson’s hands-on insights from multiple racing disciplines continue to shape his contributions to the sport, offering hope for future success both behind the wheel and from the pit box.