Jimmie Johnson and his iconic 48 car are back for one last dance. Hendrick Motorsports is loaning the No. 48 to Johnson for what will be his final Cup Series start in the 2027 Daytona 500.

Just before the Brickyard 400 race, Johnson and Rick Hendrick announced the same on the “NASCAR Nation Pre-Race” show on TNT Sports.

The No. 48 car is currently driven by Alex Bowman since 2021, when he took over from Johnson. 2027 will also see Bowman driving the 48 car in his final Cup Series season as he retires postseason.

“I'm really excited about being here with Jimmy and he called me off a few months back and said, ‘Hey, Daytona is going to be my last race and I sure would like to use the number 48.’ And so I talked to Ally, I talked to NASCAR and we got it pulled off,” said Hendrick on the show, uploaded by Speedway Digest on YouTube.

As soon as he finished, Johnson couldn’t help but share his own feelings.

“I'm beyond words and so grateful for first and foremost your friendship, your mentorship, making my family part of yours.

“Thank you so much, Rick. And big thanks to Ally, Hendrick Motorsports, you and Linda. I'm so honored and excited to have my first drive and last drive in a 48.”

Johnson and the No. 48 were a match made in heaven. He drove Hendrick Motorsports' Chevy full-time from his Cup Series debut in 2002 until his retirement in 2020, winning all seven of his Cup championships and 83 career victories in the car.

And now, life has come full circle for Johnson as Hendrick allows him to run his final Cup race in that very same car. And as the news went viral, especially the tweet from Johnson, fans couldn’t keep calm.

Fans are surprised

“Can't believe Chevy is letting u do that A rare W from them indeed,” wrote a fan.

Ever since Johnson returned to racing, has driven the No. 84 Toyota as a part-time driver and co-owner of Legacy Motor Club since 2023. Which is why the fan appreciated Chevy for their gesture and emphasized how big of a deal that is.

“Can’t wait to see you in that 48 one more time. 48 Forever,” said another.

But amidst all the celebration, one fan posed an important question many of us are thinking:

“Wonder what number bowman will have now.”

According to NASCAR.com, Bowman will indeed drive the 2027 Daytona 500, just under a different car number that’s yet to be announced.

“If Lowes doesnt sponser it we will riot,” said one fan in humor.

Lowe’s was Johnson's primary sponsor on the No. 48 for almost his entire full-time driving career before Ally took over in 2019. That blue-and-yellow Lowe's scheme is something most fans associate with his championship run.

Last but not least, one fan summed it up with a heartfelt tribute to the driver:

“#ThankYouJimmie The last time is now!”

How do you feel about Johnson’s last dance in his No. 48? Let us know!

You can read more on the Daytona Racing Digest!

Written by

Suyashdeep Sason

Edited by

Suyashdeep Sason