Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson will return to Daytona International Speedway for the 2026 Daytona 500, driving the No. 84 Carvana Toyota for Legacy Motor Club.
The 2026 Daytona 500 is scheduled for February 15. Johnson, now 50, continues to make select Cup Series starts while serving as a co-owner of Legacy Motor Club. His return keeps him connected to NASCAR’s most prestigious race, even after stepping away from full-time competition.
Johnson’s Role at Legacy Motor Club
Johnson retired from full-time NASCAR Cup Series racing after the 2020 season, ending his long run with Hendrick Motorsports. Since then, he has moved into ownership while continuing to race on a limited schedule. Legacy Motor Club competes under the Toyota banner and fields full-time entries for Erik Jones and John Hunter Nemechek. Johnson drives the No. 84 Toyota on a part-time basis, according to Carvana.
Daytona has remained a regular stop for Johnson since his retirement. He has started the Daytona 500 in each of the past four seasons. In the 2025 race, Johnson finished third after restarting 15th on the final lap and moving forward in the closing moments, as first reported by Jayski.com. The result marked his first top-five finish in the Cup Series since 2020.
Johnson will again be listed as an open entry for the 2026 Daytona 500. As Jayski.com reported, that means he must qualify for the field through single-car qualifying or the Bluegreen Vacations Duels.
Carvana Partnership and 2026 Paint Scheme
The 2026 Daytona entry marks the fifth consecutive year of Johnson’s partnership with Carvana, which began in 2021, according to the company. The new paint scheme was unveiled at the same time Johnson’s Daytona plans were confirmed.
Carvana said the design features interlocking halos that form a gradient across the body of the car, intended to reflect movement, connection, and speed. A prominent rear halo anchors the look, while yellow streaks extend from the wheels to evoke light in motion. The scheme also includes neon accents long associated with Johnson’s career and the Legacy Motor Club brand.
“Carvana has been an incredible partner, and every season we’ve found new ways to celebrate what makes racing so special, Johnson said in the release.” “This year’s scheme is sharp, it’s fresh, and I can’t wait for fans to see it on the track in Daytona.”
Carvana co-founder and Chief Brand Officer Ryan Keeton also commented on the partnership. “We’ve shared an incredible journey with Jimmie, and we’re excited for what’s ahead in our fifth year of partnership this season, Keeton said.” “Jimmie’s drive, energy, and authenticity always inspire us, and we can’t wait to see him take to the track at Daytona with this brand new design, marking another exciting chapter in our story together.”
Daytona History and 2026 Schedule
Daytona has played a major role in Johnson’s NASCAR career. He won the Daytona 500 in 2006 and again in 2013, according to Carvana. Those victories came during a career that included 83 Cup Series wins and seven championships. Johnson won five consecutive titles from 2006 through 2010, then added championships in 2013 and 2016.
Beyond Daytona, Johnson is also confirmed to compete in the San Diego NASCAR Street Race during the 2026 season. “The event is scheduled for June 19-21 at Naval Base Coronado, according to Carvana.”
Jimmie Johnson to Race 2026 Daytona 500 in No. 84 Carvana Toyota