Jimmie Johnson, a NASCAR veteran with 11 wins at Dover Motor Speedway, returned to the track driving the Next Gen car for the first time, highlighting the challenges of adapting to the new vehicle.

By the Numbers
  • Jimmie Johnson won 11 NASCAR Cup Series races at Dover Motor Speedway between 2002 and 2017.
  • Johnson made his return to the track driving part-time for his team, Legacy Motor Club.
Yes, But

The transition to the Next Gen car poses significant adjustments for experienced drivers like Johnson, impacting their driving style and strategies.

State of Play
  • Johnson highlighted the differences between the Next Gen car and previous generations, emphasizing challenges with handling and downforce.
  • After retiring from full-time Cup Series competition in 2020, Johnson returned in 2023 post a brief Indycar stint and stake acquisition in Legacy Motor Club.
What's Next

As Johnson continues to navigate the nuances of the Next Gen car, further adjustments and insights are expected to emerge as he gains more track time and experience with the vehicle.

Bottom Line

Jimmie Johnson's experience with the Next Gen car at Dover Motor Speedway showcases the complexities and challenges in transitioning to the new vehicle, underscoring the continuous learning curve for drivers in adapting to evolving NASCAR technologies and regulations.