Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson will miss this weekend’s Brickyard 400 after it was reported on Friday that Johnson has tested positive for coronavirus. Johnson, who is asymptomatic, was set to start the race in fourth position.
Johnson is a four-time winner of the Brickyard 400, and is second all-time behind only former teammate Jeff Gordon. Johnson will be replaced in the No. 48 car by Justin Allgaier.
Johnson’s absence, depending on how long it lasts, could make qualifying for the NASCAR Playoffs and making one final run at a title much more difficult. After finishing 21st and 16th in the two races at Pocono last weekend, Johnson is currently 12th in the point standings, but is likely to lose several spots by missing Sunday’s race. If he were to miss two or more races, it’s possible that he could fall below 16th place – the cutoff line for the 10-race playoff.
The positive test will also break an incredible consecutive race streak for Johnson, who has started every single Cup Series race since the 2002 Daytona 500.
Jimmie Johnson statement: pic.twitter.com/OyXlYes7zS
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) July 3, 2020
Jimmie Johnson, 44, has not experienced symptoms of COVID-19. He was tested upon learning this morning that his wife, Chandra, tested positive after experiencing allergy-like symptoms. He tested positive. Justin Allgaier will be in the car Sunday. #nascar @NASCARONFOX
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) July 3, 2020
NASCAR has granted Johnson a waiver to miss races and remain eligible for the playoffs. He can return when he is symptom free and has two negative COVID-19 tests at least 24 hours apart. #nascar @NASCARONFOX
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) July 3, 2020
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