2023 seems to be the year of the old guard coming back into the fray. This looks especially true for the NASCAR Cup Series, with many older drivers returning. Among them are Formula One world champions, Kimi Raikkonen and Jenson Button, and NASCAR legend Jimmie Johnson. However, one of Johnson’s former teammates has insisted that a grand return is not on the cards for him.

This revelation came at the Phoenix press conference where 93-time Cup Series Race Winner Jeff Gordon completely closed the door on a return.

Why is Jeff Gordon reluctant to make a comeback to NASCAR as a driver?

The Phoenix press conference saw Jeff Gordon presented with a question about whether he had time to do more races. In reply, the four-time Cup Series Champion said, “If I do, please stop me. I like to drive, I love to get out there and run laps, but I know I can’t be as competitive as what I used to be. So I prefer not to race. I’m enjoying this challenge, working with these guys, our marketing and PR group.”

Obviously, Rick’s been an incredible mentor to me over the years. On the business side, working with NASCAR, tracks, others in the industry. It’s something I’m dedicating most of my time to these days.”

“I also have two kids. Family stuff, too. I did do a race last year, though. That was fun.”

READ MORE: “It’s Something I’m Dedicating Most of My Time to” – Jeff Gordon Reveals Plans of Racing Again as He Settles Into New Hendrick Motorsports Role

While the Hendrick Motorsports VP may not grace the speedway whilst behind the wheel of a car, he certainly has his hands tied elsewhere and is actively working in and giving back to the sport.

Jeff Gordon has been facing some challenges at Hendrick Motorsports

Unfortunately for Jeff Gordon and Hendrick Motorsports, the past week has been a nightmare. It all started going pear-shaped when Chase Elliott got injured in a snowboarding accident. As a result, he will be out of action for a while as he heals from his injuries. After the Cup race at the Phoenix Raceway, things took a turn for the worse.

The entire team was hauled up for an investigation, and all four cars had a part confiscated. At the end of the investigation, each Hendrick team was docked 100 points, 10 Playoff points, and was fined $100,000.

The point penalty saw Alex Bowman, Kyle Larson, and William Byron fall outside the top 20 of the standings.

WATCH THIS STORY: “The Thing He Kept Close to His Chest & Didn’t Share With You” – Jeff Gordon Reveals How Dale Earnhardt Kept Him in the Dark