The Homestead-Miami Speedway is a track steeped in NASCAR history. And it’s gearing up for the penultimate playoff race in the Round of 8. However, there is something special about this racetrack that’s grabbing the spotlight. Legacy Motor Club, owned by the legendary 7-time Cup Series champion, Jimmie Johnson, has brought attention to a remarkable tribute that was bestowed upon the racing icon. But why has it become such a special part of the track’s history?

The Miami Speedway holds a unique place in Jimmie Johnson’s storied career. It was on this very track that he clinched all seven of his Cup Series championships. And so, in a move to honor this remarkable achievement, the speedway decided to dedicate the Turn 3 tunnel to the racing legend. The tunnel sits off Palm Drive and is also geographically the southernmost tunnel in the continental United States.

Jimmie Johnson has a whole tunnel named after him, showcasing his 7 titles

The renaming of the tunnel took place in time for the 2020 race at the Homestead-Miami Speedway, marking Jimmie Johnson’s final full-time season in the Cup Series. This significant dedication is more than just a name change. It’s also a testament to the impact Johnson has had on the sport. The newly renamed tunnel features artwork that vividly portrays Johnson, his iconic #48, and also his seven championship trophies, encapsulating his remarkable career.

Upon hearing about the honor back in 2020, Jimmie Johnson had expressed his feelings, “It’s such an incredible honor to have this tunnel renamed for me. It’s going to be weird not driving in there with that familiar pit in your stomach, as I have so many years in the past, as we were in contention for championships. So many incredible memories were made at this track. I will always remember how special this place is to me.”

It’s a way for the speedway to ensure that his accomplishments on this track will forever be etched in the hearts of fans and the history of NASCAR. Legacy Motor Club, owned by Jimmie Johnson, couldn’t resist sharing the moment. They took to Instagram stories, where they drove through the tunnel and left a heartfelt caption that read, “hi boss man’s tunnel.”

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Heading into the Miami weekend, Johnson spoke to NBC Sports and shared his views on some of the questions about his team’s and NASCAR’s future.

Johnson feels optimistic about the changes to the financial model coming to NASCAR

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For years, teams have heavily relied on sponsorship funding to keep their operations running. This model has posed challenges and limitations for the sport’s growth. However, a new financial model is set to be introduced in the upcoming season, raising hopes for a brighter financial future.

Jimmie Johnson, co-owner of Legacy Motor Club and a soon-to-be Hall of Fame inductee, shared his optimism during an interview with NBC Sports. When asked about his confidence in the changes coming to the economic model for NASCAR Cup Series teams. Johnson conveyed his belief in a positive shift, stating, “I think it’s getting closer. And I do think there will be an improvement in that [financial] gap that the teams have to find [through sponsorship]. It will shrink, just a matter of how much.”

He further emphasized the importance of making the product on track more compelling. “Ultimately, the stronger the sport is, the stronger that financial situation is going to be for all. I think the product on track is important. I like seeing some of the changes to make sure that we’re putting on a good show at all races.”

Jimmie Johnson is an advocate for collaboration between NASCAR, teams, and drivers to drive the sport forward. He believes that unity is essential, a sentiment echoed during negotiations about the charter system. By working together, the sport can harness its full potential and continue to captivate fans around the world.

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Jimmie Johnson’s optimism for the new financial model coming to NASCAR reflects a broader hope for a more stable and prosperous future for the teams and also for the sport as a whole.