MARTIN TRUEX JR. AND JIMMIE JOHNSON ANNOUNCE DAYTONA 500 RIDES
April 7, 2025 – In a thrilling announcement for NASCAR fans around the world, racing legends Martin Truex Jr. and Jimmie Johnson have confirmed that they will both be competing in the 2025 Daytona 500. This marks a historic moment in the world of motorsports, as two of NASCAR’s most iconic figures are set to return to the sport’s most prestigious race after notable breaks from full-time competition. Their participation promises to bring an extra layer of excitement to the highly anticipated event, scheduled for February 2025.
Truex, a two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, and Johnson, a seven-time Cup Series champion, have each established themselves as giants in the sport. Johnson, who retired from full-time racing in 2020, has since made sporadic appearances in select events, but the Daytona 500 will be his first time back on the sport’s biggest stage in over four years. Truex, meanwhile, announced his partial retirement from full-time racing in 2023 but has continued to participate in a limited number of races, with the Daytona 500 being the crown jewel of his 2025 schedule.
The announcement has sent shockwaves through the NASCAR community, with fans and media outlets alike buzzing about the potential for a historic showdown at the Daytona International Speedway. Truex, known for his consistency and ability to perform on superspeedways, is expected to be a formidable contender in the race. Johnson, on the other hand, is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished drivers in NASCAR history, particularly on restrictor plate tracks like Daytona, where his experience and racing intelligence give him a significant edge.
Both drivers shared their excitement about competing in the Daytona 500 during a joint press conference earlier today. Truex expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “The Daytona 500 is always special, and to be able to come back and compete with the best of the best is a great feeling. It’s been an exciting ride over the past few years, and I’m looking forward to giving it my all in this iconic race.”
Johnson echoed Truex’s sentiments, adding, “This race has always held a special place in my heart. It’s the biggest stage in NASCAR, and to be back in a car for the Daytona 500 feels amazing. I’m ready to race with the top guys and make the most of this opportunity. It’s going to be a blast.”
Both Truex and Johnson will be driving for different teams in the 2025 Daytona 500. Truex will be behind the wheel of the No. 19 Toyota Camry for Joe Gibbs Racing, while Johnson will return to the No. 48 Chevrolet Camaro for Hendrick Motorsports, the team with which he won all seven of his Cup Series championships.
This announcement comes at a time when NASCAR is seeing a resurgence in interest, with younger drivers like Chase Elliott, Kyle Larson, and Denny Hamlin continuing to elevate the sport’s profile. The return of Truex and Johnson, two of the sport’s most successful and beloved veterans, adds another layer of excitement as the Daytona 500 approaches.
The 2025 Daytona 500, often referred to as “The Great American Race,” will take place on Sunday, February 18, 2025, and with Truex and Johnson’s entries, fans can expect an intense battle between NASCAR’s rising stars and its most experienced veterans. The race promises to be one of the most memorable editions in recent history, and Truex and Johnson’s participation will certainly keep fans on the edge of their seats.
The announcement has already sparked widespread excitement, and with the Daytona 500 just around the corner, all eyes will be on the legendary duo as they aim for victory on one of the sport’s grandest stages.
