If you ask NASCAR fans who is the greatest driver of the sport, you’ll definitely come across the name of Jimmie Johnson. Despite retiring from the sport as a driver a while back, the 7-time NASCAR Cup Series champion is still making headlines. This time around, he has become the center of attention for the enthusiast as he recently revealed his plan for the 2023 NASCAR All-Star Race.

Fans and the community are much hyped about this year’s All-star race coming to the mecca of American motorsports, the North Wilkesboro Speedway!

And while the NASCAR Fraternity seems electrified with the thought of some of the biggest names in the sport coming down to race at North Wilkesboro Speedway, there has been some bad news from Johnson’s end.

Jimmie Johnson upsets fans while talking about the NASCAR All-Star Race

Fans were in for a shock, as Jimmie opens up about his possible return to NASCAR in the coming All-star race.

Ardent fans and old-school racing junkies were in for a treat as NASCAR announced its plans to make the NWB speedway the venue for its upcoming All-star race, replacing the lesser favorite Texas Motor Speedway.

But things took a rather disappointing turn, as Jim Utter, NASCAR Editor for Motorsport.com posted this on Twitter earlier.

In a recent press conference, when asked about his NASCAR return at the All Star Race, Johnson said, “I’ve thought about it, but it’s too close and we’re not prepared for it. Maybe next year.” 

Implying the obvious pressure on his team, already working on other racecars, he was the bearer of bad news for this one.

READ MORE: One Text With Jimmie Johnson Kickstarted Jenson Button’s NASCAR Journey & Made Him Fall In Love With “Nextgen” Car

With the senior journalist confirming the rumors, choked fans were quick to express their displeasure.

Fans expressing their disappointment with Jimmie Johnson decision

The fan community did not shy away from expressing their disappointment. Even while the race witnesses a much-awaited return of their favorite track, fans aren’t much happy about it.

With the race scheduled for the month of May, and tickets already on sale, Jimmie’s latest revelation seems to have hurt the popular fan sentiment.

Reacting to Jim’s post confirming Jimmie’s decision, fans had much to say.

While most fans expressed their upset booing, Romand came up with an interesting take.

WATCH THIS STORY: ‘Playing cool about it’- Dale Earnhardt Jr teases Jimmie Johnson about his secretive nature.  

As it turns out, things ain’t all gloomy, as the NASCAR veteran is looking to make his comeback with two races this year. The first is this weekend, at COTA and the other one is at Charlotte Motor Speedway.