Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and Hendrick Motorsports legend Jimmie Johnson is no stranger to criticism. The racing superstar has faced his fair share of detractors throughout his illustrious career. Now, his recent confession regarding his return to IndyCar Racing has sparked a fresh round of skepticism from some fans. Johnson is facing backlash from critics who have questioned his decision, citing his lackluster performances during his previous two forays into open-wheel racing.

Hendrick Motorsports legend Jimmie Johnson’s IndyCar journey

Jimmie Johnson, one of the most successful drivers in NASCAR history, has had a brief but eventful career in IndyCar racing. The Hendrick Motorsports legend announced his retirement from full-time NASCAR competition at the end of the 2020 season, and he quickly turned his attention to his new role as a driver for the Chip Ganassi Racing team in IndyCar. In 2021, Johnson ran a partial schedule of road courses for the team, and in 2022, he added the oval races to his schedule, including the Indianapolis 500.

Johnson’s IndyCar career got off to a rocky start in 2021, as he struggled to adapt to the new car and the different style of driving required in open-wheel racing. However, he steadily improved throughout the season and had his best finishes of 17 in Monterey and Long Beach. In 2022, Johnson’s results were more consistent, and he finished 21st in the season.

Though his ardent fans would love to see more of him on the tracks, Johnson has made it clear that his priority is his new role as a co-owner of the Legacy Motors Club. However, it looks like the veteran still has a desire to continue driving. Moreover, he also hinted at a possible return to open-wheel racing.

In a recent interview, the former HMS driver admitted, “I have desires to continue to drive a NASCAR vehicle, to run in sports car […] to run in INDYCAR again.” 

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Jimmie Johnson shuts down fans with a savage reply as they criticize his decision

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However, this statement was met with backlash from some fans who questioned Johnson’s ability to perform well in open-wheel racing.

One fan tweeted, “Why…your Indy car career wasn’t actually that great. Stick to being a team owner and drive a select few NASCAR races,” while another agreed and added, “Get what you’re saying…but there’s people that have spent years and years in open-wheel racing that have earned the spot on the grid that you have. If you’re not ‘good’ at it..maybe don’t take their spot.”

Several agreed with the take as someone commented, “One thing he is right tho, drive more cup races please.” along with another who said, “Car owner looking bad, IRL driver really bad.”

However, Johnson remained undeterred by the criticism and stood firm in his decision. He responded to the negative comments by saying, “Why you ask … For me, it’s about the experiences. I’m not sure what it’s like living your life but I’ve found it hard, if not impossible to be good at everything I do.”

Johnson’s transition to IndyCar has been one of the most closely watched storylines in motorsports over the past two years. Despite his lack of experience in open-wheel racing and being past his prime, he has shown that he has the determination to compete at the highest level.

Whether he returns to IndyCar or not, Johnson’s legacy as one of the greatest drivers in NASCAR history is secure, and his brief but eventful foray into open-wheel racing will be remembered as another intriguing chapter of his storied career.

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