NASCAR: 3 possible car numbers for Jimmie Johnson in 2023
By Asher Fair
Jimmie Johnson landing spots: No. 3 – No. 44 Chevrolet
The No. 44 is probably the most likely option for Jimmie Johnson in 2023, given its ties to the Petty family and the fact that the other numbers with significant ties to the family are either already being used by Petty GMS Motorsports or being used by other teams (i.e. No. 41 at Stewart-Haas Racing, No. 45 at 23XI Racing).
Before Richard Petty Motorsports and GMS Racing merged, the number Richard Petty Motorsports had used most recently (other than No. 43) was No. 44, which they ran on Brian Scott’s Ford during the 2016 season. Before that, the number was used by the team on A.J. Allmendinger’s Dodge (and Ford) during the 2009 season.
As for its ties to the Petty family, both Maurice Petty and Kyle Petty spent time behind the wheel of a No. 44 at the sport’s highest level during their careers. Maurice, Richard’s brother, used the number in select races for his Plymouth entry in 1960 and 1961, and Kyle, Richard’s son, drove the No. 44 Pontiac from 1997 to 2000.
The No. 44 was used in 2022, but by NY Racing Team. They only competed in five races throughout the season, their first season in the Cup Series since 2018 and their first with a No. 44 car since 2015. Their plans are not confirmed for 2023.
Next. JGR still have a big decision to make. dark
Which number will Jimmie Johnson end up running on his Chevrolet entry when he competes for Petty GMS Motorsports throughout the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series season? Will it be one of these three, or will it be another?