Legacy Motor Club co-owner Jimmie Johnson says that he and his former Hendrick Motorsports crew chief Chad Knaus and the outfit did it all as a team as the pair were officially announced as members of the NASCAR Hall of Fame Class of 2024.
Speaking after hearing the news, seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson said:
Chad is so deserving of going into the NASCAR Hall of Fame. To accomplish this together is so fitting as every special moment in my Cup Series career was shared with Chad. He’s a brother, a friend, and a brilliant crew chief – one of the best ever,” Johnson said after he received the news.
“I drove a Chad Knaus set-up racecar throughout every moment we had and to share this induction with him is incredible. “This is such a huge honor, I’m thankful for Ricky Hendrick, Rick Hendrick and the entire Hendrick family, Jeff Gordon, Chad, and everyone at Hendrick Motorsports and in the NASCAR industry who has ever touched a No. 48 car throughout the years. This is as much of a celebration for all of them as it is for me. We did this as a team.”
Erik Jones driver of the No. 43 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, commented on the announcement saying:
“I think Jimmie’s nomination into the NASCAR Hall of Fame was fairly a no-brainer for everybody.. “I am proud to see him go in and proud to have him as part of our group. I am happy for him and his family to see the well-deserved nomination. I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to race against him early in my career and now to have him in an ownership position is incredible. Jimmie has revolutionized the sport in so many ways, and I am truly looking forward to seeing his induction.”
NASCAR rookie Noah Gragson commented saying:
“A Jimmie Johnson Darlington win diecast was the first one I ever purchased. “Growing up I was a fan of his and now that I get to drive for him, it’s a big deal to me. He deserves this recognition as he is such a leader and mentor both on and off the track for me and our team. He truly is one of the nicest guys out there and is so genuine. I’m so happy for him today.”