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USA Today via Reuters

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USA Today via Reuters

It won’t be long before the NASCAR world bids adieu to Jimmie Johnson as a full-time driver. From a fresh-faced rookie all the way back in 1997 to a 7-time NASCAR Cup Series Champion, he has certainly come a long way.

In a recent tweet, he harked back to the 1997 season when he was a competitor for the American Speed Association (ASA). His official debut came in 1998 with the ASA series, where he finished 4th in the championship.

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As he progressed up the rankings and gained experience, he effectively honed his skills. With that, his legend only grew, and he became a hotter prospect in the sport.

Later on, Hendrick Motorsports caught wind of this exciting young talent called Jimmie Johnson and signed him in 2001. Since then, the California native has never looked back and only went from strength to strength.

The rise of Jimmie Johnson in NASCAR

Ever since he joined Hendrick Motorsports, he has not only remained loyal but delivered his record-equalling 7 titles for them. It goes without saying that Jimmie Johnson stamped his authority as a NASCAR legend.

The 45-year-old may have missed out on a chance to compete in the Playoffs this year, but his legacy remains intact

The 2020 season will be Johnson’s final full-time season, along with Clint Bowyer. However, Johnson still has the racing itch in him, so he is off to the IndyCar series to scratch it.

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In the process, he may gun for the prestigious Indianapolis 500, though he will meet stiff competition on that front.

However, as things stand, Jimmie Johnson is only concerned about closing out his NASCAR career. Since he has no designs on the championship, he really has nothing to lose.

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If he wanted, he could try to go out in a blaze of glory and win one last race before retirement beckons.

READ MORE- Celebrating the Career of Jimmie Johnson on His Last Birthday as a Full-Time NASCAR Driver

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