Earlier this week, it transpired that 7-time NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. As a result, he promptly pulled out of the Brickyard 400 to avoid spreading the virus.

So, the 44-year old has to focus on recovery and wait for a chance to step in the car again.

In light of this, Hendrick Motorsports Vice President of Competition, Jeff Andrews opened up to the latest developments. In a video chat with Fox: NASCAR on Twitter, he said “If Jimmie were to go next week and test on Monday. Go back again, 25 hours later, and test again, and those tests were both negative.

“Once he gets a doctor’s release, theoretically, he could be in Kentucky if that scenario lines up.”

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Can Jimmie Johnson attend next week’s race?

In all honesty, this is a huge relief and a spot of good news, since NASCAR has already approved of his potential return. He lost 27 points when he missed the race at Indianapolis.

Luckily, he is still 36 points above the cut line, so he remains in contention for the playoffs.

Concerning the race that Johnson missed, backup driver Justin Allgaier had a forgettable day in the office. As it turned out, his Hendrick Motorsports No. 48 Chevrolet got caught up in a Big One while cars jostled around entering the pit road.

The team did its utmost to repair the car and get Allgaier back in action. Sadly, the impact took its toll and finally gave up the ghost.

As he apologized, crew chief Cliff Daniels said, “Just a tough day, man. You didn’t do anything wrong. Just a victim of circumstances. We’ll go fight again next week. Thanks for helping us out today.”

Meanwhile, Johnson will be hoping that a driver who is not in the playoff contention, does not win the race. So, he will be praying that no new winners appear and reduce his chances.

Whatever the case, Jimmie Johnson will be keen to recover and get back behind the wheel and race yet again.