Johnson returning to No. 48 for Daytona 500 farewell

Jimmie Johnson will be back in a familiar car number for the 7-time Cup Series champion's final NASCAR start next February.

Rick Hendrick announced on the TNT Sports pre-race show from Indianapolis that Johnson will be given the No. 48, which he made iconic during his tenure with the company, for the 2027 Daytona 500. Johnson reached out to Hendrick a few months ago, and all parties involved (team, NASCAR, sponsor Ally) approved it.

Johnson drove for Hendrick from 2002 through his full-time retirement in 2020. Ally became his sponsor after the departure of Lowe’s in 2018.

“This is far more than a number,” Johnson said. “The 48 represents people, relationships, memories and a chapter of my life that shaped who I am. To have the opportunity to make one final Cup Series start carrying that number is something I never imagined. I’m incredibly grateful to Rick, Hendrick Motorsports, Ally and everyone who made this possible.

“It’s a gesture I’ll carry with me forever.”

All of Johnson’s 83 career wins came with Hendrick Motorsports in the No. 48, as well as his seven championships. He won at least one race for 17 straight seasons.

Johnson will make his final start in the Daytona 500. It is a race that he won twice.

“The No. 48 is part of Hendrick Motorsports’ history, and it’s forever connected to Jimmie,” Rick Hendrick said. “When Jimmie asked about using the number for his final race, it just felt right. Ally immediately understood why it mattered, too. They’ve always valued relationships, and their willingness to be part of this says everything about the kind of partner they are.

“Seeing Jimmie back in the No. 48 at Daytona one last time will be quite a moment.”

Ally is still a sponsor for Hendrick Motorsports with Alex Bowman, who currently drives the No. 48 car. Bowman's number for the Daytona 500 will be announced later.

“The 48 has always stood for something bigger than racing: a relationship built on trust, shared wins, and a fanbase that gives everything they have,” said Ally chief marketing and PR officer Andrea Brimmer. “Jimmie is part of the Ally family, and the chance to see him at Daytona one last time with that number is something our fans deserve as much as he does. We’re proud to be part of making this moment happen.”

Johnson’s final start in Daytona will be the 703rd of his career.