Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson has admitted his dreams have come true after it was announced he would be returning to run in the inaugural San Diego at Naval Base Coronado next season.

Johnson, who owns Legacy Motor Club, grew up 20 miles outside the military base, with the 2026 Cup Series race in San Diego set to be the first time he has raced in South California since 2020. He raced twice last season during the 2025 campaign, having become a peripheral figure after retiring from full-time competition back in 2020.

The 50-year-old has admitted hitting the track in San Diego represents a “bucket-list” moment in his prestigious career, adding he “dreamed about racing” there. “Growing up just miles from San Diego, I dreamed about racing here in a NASCAR vehicle someday, but I never thought it would be possible,” said Johnson, via Legacy Motor Club’s website.

“I just came to the realization that there would be no way NASCAR could race in that city – as there would be nowhere to put a track.

“So, it’s just mind-blowing to me that NASCAR made this a reality. To come back home, compete in front of my community, the military, my family, and friends, and do it with Carvana and LEGACY MOTOR CLUB, this is one of those full-circle experiences I will never forget. It’s a lifelong dream.

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He added: “When I think about everything this sport has given me and where it all started, being able to race in San Diego at this level feels like my career has come full circle.

“Starting out on two wheels racing motorcycles throughout the west coast and now being able to race on four in the same region is something I never thought I would see.

“Additionally, my grandparents were military and are buried in Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery nearby the base, so it’s an honor to race there – this is going to be very special.”

Johnson will pilot the No. 84 Toyota Camry XSE for Legacy Motor Club, with his paint scheme set to be revealed in the near future.

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Having retired from full-time competition after the 2020 season, Johnson has raced sporadically for Legacy Motor Club over the course of the last three seasons.

In the season-opening Daytona 500 earlier this year, he finished third, with his only other Cup Series appearance this year coming in the Coca-Cola 600.