7 Time Cup Series Champion Jimmie Johnson Finally Breaks His Silence On Devastating Tragedy

Earlier this year, Jimmie Johnson was forced to pull out of the inaugural Chicago Street Course race. This was largely because he had other, more important priorities in mind, especially on a personal level. As it happened, the 7-time Cup Series champion was faced with a personal tragedy.

According to reports, Johnson’s wife’s parents and his nephew tragically lost their lives in a murder-suicide case.

Jimmie Johnson put out a statement addressing the personal tragedy

Naturally, the driver pulled out of the Chicago event in order to be with his family during this tough period. Since then, Johnson has not raced in the Cup Series and has largely kept away from the spotlight. Up until then, he competed in three races for Legacy Motor Club, not achieving such stellar results for his own team.

Recently, the Hendrick Motorsports legend took to social media after a brief absence.

In a statement, he said, “Our family is devastated by the profound loss of Lynn, Jack and Dalton Janway. We have been humbled by the outpouring of love and support during this unthinkably sad time and remain grateful for all of your compassion.”

Now, it is relatively unknown if the driver will be back in a NASCAR Cup car. So far, he has not given any indication about returning or even retiring permanently.

WATCH THIS STORY: Nerve-Wrecking Personal Tragedy Forces Jimmie Johnson to Bow Out of Chicago Street Race

Will Jimmie Johnson return to racing or will he retire permanently?

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As mentioned before, Johnson’s future as a racing driver is a big question mark. However, even if he does retire, this won’t be the last that we see of the 7-time Cup Series champion. This is because he is the co-owner of Legacy Motor Club, formerly known as Richard Petty Motorsports. Admittedly, the ex-Hendrick Motorsports star was already on the back foot because he is less experienced with the Next Gen car.

In a spot of good news though, he and former Hendrick Motorsports crew chief Chad Knaus are up for an incredible honor. To be precise, the duo will be up for a possible nomination into the NASCAR Hall of Fame. They will be up against Carl Edwards, Neil Bonnett, Jeff Burton, Ricky Rudd, and Harry Gant. Other nominees include Tim Brewer, Harry Hyde, Larry Phillips, Donnie Allison, and AJ Foyt. Sam Ard, Banjo Matthews, and Ralph Moody.

READ MORE: Amid Shocking Retirement Rumors, Grieving 7-Time NASCAR Cup Series Champion Gets His Flowers at the End of His Career