NASCAR: Has Father Time Passed Drivers Over 40?

Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

Jimmie Johnson – 39 years old (turns 40 in September)

Jimmie Johnson is a six-time NASCAR champion. Johnson is one title away from tying the mark for the most titles in the history of the sport. If Johnson were to win two titles in his 40’s he would stand alone as having the most titles in the history of the sport.

Given the success of Johnson throughout his career it’s hard to imagine him not winning another championship. Johnson won his first five titles from 2006-2010 before winning his sixth championship in 2013. Johnson did not have a great season in 2014 by his own standards and that was despite winning four races. There are a bunch of drivers in the series that would deem four wins as a success but Johnson simply isn’t one of them.

Johnson is part of a power-house team in Hendrick Motorsports and one would have to imagine that he will race well into his early to mid-40’s.

Prediction: Johnson still has another title left in him. He may not break the record by winning eight championships but he will certainly get to seven.