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INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – JULY 29: Jimmie Johnson, driver of the #48 Carvana Chip Ganassi Racing Honda, looks on during practice for NTT IndyCar Series Gallagher Grand Prix at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on July 29, 2022 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Logan Riely/Getty Images)
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INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – JULY 29: Jimmie Johnson, driver of the #48 Carvana Chip Ganassi Racing Honda, looks on during practice for NTT IndyCar Series Gallagher Grand Prix at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on July 29, 2022 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Logan Riely/Getty Images)
Jimmie Johnson has become a household name in the world of NASCAR racing. With a career spanning over two decades, Johnson has cemented his place as one of the sport’s all-time greats. His impressive resume includes a record-tying seven Cup Series championships, as well as 83 Cup Series race, wins. Johnson’s skill behind the wheel, combined with his calm and collected demeanor, has made him a formidable competitor on the track.
However, many have raised the argument that he was only this good because he was in the best equipment. But that certainly was not true. Recently, during an interview, NASCAR driver Brad Keselowski gave his views on this argument surrounding the driving capabilities of Johnson.
During the interview with Racer, Keselowski said, “I guess what I saw the most out of Jimmie is undoubtedly he had the best equipment, but he was cool enough and smart enough to know when to use that equipment and when to settle for a second or third because it wasn’t in the cards.”
“At any point in time, a lot of drivers in Cup will have great equipment, but having great equipment and getting the most out of it is completely different. And he was able to know when to go and when not to go and was really, really good at playing those games of understanding what the landscape was. That was impressive to me.”
Jimmie Johnson has faced criticism several times for his good machinery
Being one of NASCAR’s most successful drivers, the Hendrick Motorsports driver has faced criticism throughout his career. Mostly for having a fast car and access to better machinery. Moreover, several have argued that these factors have played a significant role in his numerous victories and championship titles.
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DAYTONA BEACH, FL: Jimmie Johnson, driver of the #48 Lowe’s Chevrolet. Celebrates in victory lane after winning the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)
However, it’s important to note that all drivers in NASCAR have access to top-quality equipment. It’s ultimately the driver’s skill and talent that determines their success on the track. Johnson’s team may have an advantage in terms of resources. It takes a great deal of expertise and hard work to perform consistently at a high level.
Furthermore, Johnson’s success can’t be solely attributed to his car or equipment. He has frequently demonstrated exceptional talent and a strong work ethic throughout his career. Also, multiple qualities have undoubtedly contributed to his several victories and championships.
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It’s natural to look for explanations for an athlete’s success. But it’s important to remember that there are many factors at play in any given competition. In the case of Johnson, his access to top-quality equipment and a fast car may have played a role in his success. But it’s his talent and dedication as a driver that has truly set him apart.
