3 possible landing spots for Jimmie Johnson in 2023
By Randy Smith
Jimmie Johnson landing spots: No. 2 – Both IndyCar and NASCAR
Jimmie Johnson’s next contract in IndyCar doesn’t necessarily have to be a full-time deal. If the veteran decides to return to the open-wheel series, he could elect to run a part-time schedule, similar to what he did in 2021, thus leaving some dates open on a potential return to NASCAR.
Given his wish to run the Memorial Day Double, it’s no secret that he wants to return to the Cup Series, but outside of Charlotte Motor Speedway, Johnson has also shown his intrigue in running the inaugural NASCAR street course race in Chicago as well.
If Johnson does indeed return to NASCAR next season, the team he would most likely compete for is Trackhouse Racing Team through their new PROJECT91. The team debuted the #91 Chevrolet this year at Watkins Glen International, with 2007 Formula 1 champion Kimi Raikkonen behind the wheel.
Trackhouse Racing Team co-owner Justin Marks has said he would “absolutely” allow Johnson to drive the #91 Chevrolet, and with financial backing from Carvana, there isn’t much stopping either side other than the fact that the conversation itself still might not have happened.
Johnson hasn’t yet competed in the Gen 7 car the Cup Series debuted this year, and outside of the buzz his return would bring in and of itself, his return would give him the opportunity to add another vehicle to his racing resume.
With him constantly linked to a NASCAR return and a full commitment from his sponsor, it seems like a matter of when and not if. But for that to happen, Johnson may need to revert back from a full-time IndyCar schedule and work out a deal with Ganassi and Marks to compete where he wants to compete.