Jimmie Johnson’s Legacy Motor Club (LMC) is reportedly considering a dramatic buyout or merger with the Haas Factory Team amid ongoing legal battles, a move that could reshape the NASCAR landscape. This development comes as LMC’s $150 million lawsuit against Rick Ware Racing (RWR) over a disputed charter sale remains unresolved in North Carolina courts in mid-2025.
The rumor first emerged from an Instagram post by nostalgiacovering NASCAR, suggesting that if LMC’s legal challenge fails, the team might acquire Haas’s No. 41 charter and operational facilities. Such a deal would expand LMC into a three-car team, a known success strategy in NASCAR’s Cup Series, while providing access to an existing crew and shop infrastructure.
The Lawsuit Over a Critical Charter Purchase and Its Stakes
The lawsuit began in April 2025 when LMC, led by seven-time Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson, sued RWR over an alleged broken agreement to purchase one of RWR’s two charters scheduled for the 2026 season. LMC valued this charter at an unprecedented $45 million, a franchise license guaranteeing guaranteed race participation and revenue. RWR contested the claim, arguing the deal was for 2027 and a different charter, which sparked a countersuit and confusion over ownership rights.
A North Carolina judge issued a brief 10-day restraining order, blocking RWR’s sale of their team to T.J. Puchyr, but ultimately denied a longer preliminary injunction. This legal limbo leaves LMC caught between protecting their investment and exploring alternate options such as merging with Haas.
Expanding its fleet is essential for LMC’s growth. Currently, LMC fields two cars—No. 42 driven by John Hunter Nemechek and No. 43 piloted by Erik Jones—alongside Johnson’s part-time No. 84. The addition of a third car has historically boosted performance by increasing data sharing and attracting sponsorships. However, with only 36 charters available in the Cup Series, acquiring one remains both rare and expensive, making this legal fight a crucial moment for Johnson’s ambitions.
Haas Factory Team’s Fragile Position Fuels Buyout Speculation
The Haas Factory Team, once the backbone of Stewart-Haas Racing, now operates a single-car team with Cole Custer in the No. 41. After Stewart-Haas Racing’s 2024 shutdown, Haas remains vulnerable as a lone operator. Rumors hint that LMC could step in to acquire Haas’s charter, personnel, and shop facilities, which would rapidly provide the infrastructure needed for a three-car operation.
However, merging Johnson’s Toyota-powered Legacy Motor Club with Ford-aligned Haas could present significant logistical and manufacturer-related challenges. Such a deal would require negotiation and approval from NASCAR and both manufacturers, adding complexity to what could otherwise be a straightforward solution to LMC’s charter dilemma.
Industry-Wide Instability Heightens the Stakes for LMC
The NASCAR charter market is currently unsettled, with multiple lawsuits underway, including one by 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports against NASCAR concerning charter renewal rules. These disputes raise concerns over the future of the charter system itself.
For Legacy Motor Club, the loss of the RWR charter would thwart ambitions to expand, particularly at a moment when Toyota aims to boost its presence in the Cup Series. Acquiring Haas’s charter could be a critical lifeline, yet it hinges on NASCAR’s approval and navigating complex manufacturer politics.
The impact of this ongoing saga extends beyond just one team; it could influence NASCAR’s evolving competitive and financial landscape throughout 2025 and beyond, making Johnson’s next moves crucial for the sport’s direction.
Jimmie Johnson’s Personal Ambition to Race in San Diego
Beyond the business maneuvers, Johnson is also focused on achieving a personal milestone by competing in the 2026 NASCAR street race at Naval Base Coronado in his hometown of San Diego County. Despite his illustrious career with seven championships and 83 Cup wins, Johnson has never raced in San Diego, adding excitement around this event.
The desire to race in my hometown is off the charts,
Johnson said eagerly, expressing his enthusiasm for performing before local supporters. Even if he doesn’t secure a spot on the grid, he has vowed to attend and support Legacy Motor Club’s drivers.
Johnson’s roots are grounded in dirt track racing, and he never had the chance to compete at the now-closed Cajon Speedway near San Diego.
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My upbringing was more about dirt tracks,
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he admitted, highlighting the contrast with this unprecedented street race. The Naval Base Coronado event promises a striking spectacle, mixing precision street racing with the dramatic backdrop of fighter jets, drawing comparisons to cinematic franchises like Fast & Furious and Top Gun.
NASCAR’s move into San Diego’s market is just smart. It’s a city that loves big events, and NASCAR will shine.
— Jimmie Johnson
Securing a race seat will be challenging. NASCAR limits the field to 40 cars, and there is no sponsor’s exemption, meaning Johnson must earn his place competitively. His road-course skills have been rusty, and adapting to the new Next Gen car adds difficulty. Still, as a Daytona 500 winner and clutch performer, Johnson is preparing to pursue a spot aggressively, potentially in LMC’s No. 84 or elsewhere. A hometown run would be a highlight in an already legendary career, completing a long-held dream and energizing local fans.