With TNT Sports making its return for a second season as one of NASCAR’s broadcasters, the network announced the seven-time NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson to their new roster as a guest.

Johnson will be joining the network for three races during the NASCAR In-season Challenge. He will be in the broadcasting booth as a studio analyst beginning with the first race on June 28th at Sonoma Raceway. He will also be present in the booth at North Wilkesboro Speedway on July 19, followed by the final round at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on July 26. 

In a press release put out by Johnson, he expressed his gratitude towards NASCAR for the opportunity. 

"Joining TNT Sports is an opportunity that truly energizes me. NASCAR has given me so much throughout my career, and getting the chance to share that passion from a new perspective alongside a fantastic team of NASCAR legends is something I’m really looking forward to," he said.

Johnson will be joined by ESPN’s Marty Smith, who will be handling the pre- and post-race hosting, along with Dale Earnhardt Jr., Steve Letarte, and Jamie McMurray. 

The Legacy Motor Club owner further spoke about how he was excited to contribute to getting the fans closer to the sport. 

"TNT Sports has a long history of bringing fans closer to the action, and I’m excited to help deliver that same level of insight, intensity, and fun as part of their NASCAR coverage," Johnson said.

TNT Sports had been covering the sport from 2001 to 2014 before they briefly stepped away as FOX Sports and NBC took over. However, they signed a seven-year deal in 2023, which took effect from 2025 and will run through to 2031. 

Johnson is no stranger to broadcasting. He served as a NASCAR analyst for NBC Sports after stepping away from full-time Cup Series racing following the 2020 season.

The partnership between TNT Sports and Johnson will bring a fresh perspective to the broadcasts. However, this is not the only big news surrounding the seven-time NASCAR champion. 

NASCAR Legend Jimmie Johnson Under Fire for the Upcoming Autograph Session

On Monday, June 15, the veteran NASCAR driver announced that he will be present at the San Diego track and will be available to sign merchandise. 

But in the poster he put out to announce the same, the fine print disclaimer on the poster caught the fans' eyes as it revealed that fans would be allowed to enter the signing only once they purchase the Carvana paint scheme diecast. 

"Planning to stop by the autograph session? Be sure to check the details on the graphic. Wristbands are limited, and there are a few important guidelines to know," Johnson's tweet read on June 16.

This fine print drew a lot of backlash from the NASCAR community. Many of the fans also expressed this disappointment. 

However, Johnson's new deal with TNT Sports leads to excitement among the fans.

Share your thoughts on Johnson's new role.

Read more at Daytona Racing Digest.

Written by

Chionia Libania Colaco

Edited by

Soheli Tarafdar