Jimmie Johnson will serve as the crew chief for Dario Franchitti during the upcoming NASCAR Truck Series race in St. Petersburg on February 28. The seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion shared with Above the Yellow Line Media that he is eager to lead Franchitti from the pit box in this unique matchup.
Dario Franchitti, a racing legend primarily known for his success in IndyCar, will return to NASCAR competition for the first time since 2008 by driving the No. 1 Tricon Garage Toyota in this event. This will mark Franchitti’s second Truck Series race, with his first in 2007 at Martinsville ending in a 33rd-place finish.
Prepared and Inspired: Johnson’s Vision for Franchitti’s Return
Johnson expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, highlighting the quality of the Tricon Garage team and their equipment. He personally convinced Franchitti to race again in the Truck Series after more than a decade away from professional racing. The sponsorship from Dollar Tree solidifies the opportunity.
I’m super excited, Tricon has incredible equipment,
Jimmie Johnson said to Above the Yellow Line Media on Sunday.
They’ve put together a really nice opportunity for us to run Dario.
Johnson personally recruited Franchitti to run a Truck Series race after the IndyCar Series legend spent over a dozen years away from professional racing. Dollar Tree agreed to come on board as a primary sponsor.
Sharing the dynamic between the two, Johnson revealed the terms that led to his new role:
I talked him into driving a truck, and he said, ‘If I’m driving, I need you on the box,’
Johnson said.
So I’ll be on the box doing my best to not mess him up.
Franchitti’s Accomplished Career and NASCAR Experience
Dario Franchitti is celebrated for an outstanding career in IndyCar, where he won four championships and three Indianapolis 500 titles. Although his NASCAR appearances were limited to 10 Cup Series races, including the 2008 Daytona 500 where he finished 33rd, his upcoming Truck Series race will be a noteworthy return to NASCAR competition.
Johnson’s Transition from Driver to Crew Chief and Owner
This event marks the first time Johnson will act as a crew chief. After two decades racing full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series from 2000 to 2020, Johnson shifted roles, becoming part-owner of Petty GMS Motorsports, now Legacy Motor Club, in November 2023. Despite this, he continues to participate as a part-time driver, most recently competing in the 2024 Daytona 500, finishing 29th.
Earlier this year, Johnson posted strong results, including a third-place finish at Daytona and a 40th place in the Coca-Cola 600 in 2025. His transition reflects his evolving presence within motorsports as both a competitor and team leader.
Looking Ahead: Johnson’s Final NASCAR Cup Start
Johnson has announced that the 2027 Daytona 500 will serve as his final NASCAR Cup Series race, signaling the end of an era. The two-time Daytona 500 champion reflected on his career with gratitude.
Next February, I’ll make my final start in the Cup Series at Daytona,
he said, via Jayski’s.
I’ve been very fortunate to accomplish more than I ever imagined in this sport.
This milestone highlights Johnson’s enduring influence in NASCAR as he embarks on his new role as a crew chief, beginning with guiding Franchitti’s return to NASCAR competition.
