Jimmie Johnson, a seven-time NASCAR Cup champion, successfully secured his spot in the Daytona 500 after a dramatic last-lap pass during Thursday's qualifying race in Duel 1. Johnson, who is also a driver/owner, expressed the immense pressure he felt leading up to the race, particularly regarding the expectations from his partners. He admitted that making such a move to qualify wasn't initially part of his strategy, indicating the high stakes and his determination to compete in the prestigious event. The moment was not only a personal victory for Johnson but also a significant event in the racing community, with fellow competitors, including Yeley whom he passed in the final moments, and fans acknowledging his achievement. Johnson's participation also highlighted his switch to Toyota, adding another layer of interest to his racing career.
Daytona 500 preview content: 1-on-1 with Jimmie Johnson on why he is still racing -- is it because of a lengthy winless streak he hopes to snap, the love of competition or what? Plus why the change to Toyota? @NASCARONFOX https://t.co/XSWV0HWDeU
It's been an intense few days for @JimmieJohnson. We were right there with him during his quest to make the #DAYTONA500. https://t.co/6JsbdLFMFL
Respect @JimmieJohnson 🤝 @jjyeley1 The 7x #NASCAR Cup champ narrowly avoided missing the field for the #Daytona500, passing Yeley in the final moments of his qualifying race! The two drivers shook hands afterwards. https://t.co/ENV0wovJbn
Cool to see @JPosnanski back whipping up a #DAYTONA500 story about @JimmieJohnson. https://t.co/33EGSGCUL0
Jimmie Johnson admits that earning a spot in this year's #DAYTONA500 with a last-lap pass in Thursday's qualifying race "wasn't in my playbook" ⬇️ https://t.co/0UYz3xzLVf
“I told myself, ‘My opportunity for the #Daytona500 was right here and now.’” It took a last-lap pass, but Jimmie Johnson is in the field. https://t.co/EsTqlIoNKy
He made it in. Hear from @JimmieJohnson right after he qualified for the #DAYTONA500 through Duel 1: https://t.co/Tj1YpJSvXw
7x #NASCAR Cup champ @JimmieJohnson dramatically raced his way into #Daytona500 on Thursday, and the pressure was immense for the driver/owner. #NASCAR 🗣️“It’s heavier. I feel the weight of the partnerships." https://t.co/nubMzHKEJv
"I’m like, ‘I’m not going to make it. I’m not going to make the Daytona 500. I’m going to have to call all our partners. I’m going to have to stand in the suite and shake hands during the 500 and not drive a car.’ -- Jimmie Johnson LINK ⤵️ https://t.co/WNvo2ZiHc9