Ex-Dale Earnhardt Jr. Driver Opens Up on “Special Moment” After Switch to “Big Brother” Jimmie Johnson’s Side

Earlier this year, the Petty GMS Racing team announced that Noah Gragson would race for them full-time. Later, down the line, the organization dropped a massive bombshell that rocked the community. They announced that Jimmie Johnson is linking up with the team as a part-owner and part-time driver. In fact, he is targeting a run in the 2023 Daytona 500, and Gragson is excited to work with the 7-time champion.

It is worth mentioning that Gragson has established a rapport with Johnson. In fact, he considers the NASCAR legend as a “big brother figure” and often leaned on him for advice. This largely pertained to situations that could arise on the racetrack, and how to deal with them.

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What did Noah Gragson say about Jimmie Johnson?

He said, “[I] felt like a little brother just wearing out the big brother. Not comparing that he is like a big brother figure to me right now, but in the sense of like, I was trying to gain as much knowledge as I could from him. So he was always open to helping me out and really, really grateful for that. Jimmie, obviously, [brings] a lot of value into the team and different aspects. And personally, I think that it’s really special for everybody involved. Everyone’s really excited. And [I’m] excited to be able to be teammates with Erik Jones full time. He’s a great driver as well.”

With this, the Petty GMS Racing team will enter the 2023 Cup season with a formidable line-up. Gragson is the up-and-coming star, graduating from the Xfinity Series and Erik Jones is a 3-time race winner. Finally, what more is there to say about Jimmie Johnson? His seven NASCAR Cup Series titles speak volumes of his prowess as a racing driver. Additionally, Johnson will be a crucial figure in helping the team build the car and find what makes it tick, especially with his experience.

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There is a perfect blend of youth and experience at GMS Racing leading up to the new season and the expectation will be high from fans.