Former NASCAR Cup Series champion and Hall of Famer Matt Kenseth has joined Legacy Motor Club as a competition advisor, the organization announced Tuesday.
Kenseth will be involved on the competition side as well as mentoring Erik Jones and John Hunter Nemechek while helping the organization in its transition to Toyota for the 2024 season. He begins in his role effective immediately.
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“Jimmie [Johnson] and I have so much respect for each other as both competitors and friends – we are alike in many ways and at similar points in our careers,” Kenseth said. “This is a great opportunity for me to be a resource for two extremely talented drivers and help on the racing operations side with this transition to Toyota. I’m really looking forward to seeing what we can accomplish together.”
Kenseth and Johnson were fierce rivals for race wins and championships. Kenseth won his lone championship in 2003, with Johnson finishing second in the standings. When Johnson won his first championship in 2006, Kenseth was the runner-up. He was also the runner-up to a Johnson championship in 2013.
“Not only is Matt an excellent driver and a fierce competitor, he’s also a great friend,” Johnson said. “This alliance makes so much sense. Matt is extremely smart, has worked with Toyota while racing for Joe Gibbs Racing, and is still as competitive as ever. He’s a natural-born athlete and as fit as I have ever seen him. I’m so glad he is willing to share his knowledge and experience with us, and we look forward to all Matt has to offer.”
Kenseth was a full-time Cup Series driver from 2000 through 2017, earning 39 career victories. In 2018, Kenseth rejoined Jack Roush to drive the No. 6 car alongside Trevor Bayne. Chip Ganassi called on Kenseth’s experience in 2020 to drive the No. 42 after Kyle Larson was suspended early in the season.
Jones drives the No. 43 and Nemechek will join the organization in the No. 42 next season. Legacy Motor Club is switching from Chevrolet to Toyota, the latter a manufacturer that Kenseth spent five seasons driving for while with Joe Gibbs Racing.
“Matt is going to help make this transition to Toyota smooth,” said Joey Cohen, Legacy Motor Club vice president of racing operations. “He is one of the best drivers out there, and even though he is no longer behind the wheel, his perspective and advice will be crucial heading into next season for both our drivers and crews.”