One of the strongest partnerships in the NASCAR world is that of driver and crew chief. So, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that Jimmie Johnson and Chad Knaus could win 81 races in the 17 seasons they were together. They could create a record with seven cup championship wins. So, is it even surprising that the two were inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2024?

Well, while a lot has been said and written about the NASCAR star Jimmie Johnson, few people know the personality behind his crew chief, and he’s finally given fans a peak behind the curtain.

Chad Knaus – the good, the bad and the ugly

Chad Knaus is a prominent figure in the NASCAR universe, recognized as one of the best crew chiefs in the sport’s history. He ranks just behind legends Dale Inman and Leonard Wood for the most victories as a crew chief. Knaus’s journey in racing began as a teenager when he guided his father to numerous track championships, laying the foundation for his successful career in top-tier stock car racing.

Starting his professional journey as a tire changer in 1995, Knaus transitioned to a full-time crew chief role in 2001, leading Stacy Compton’s No. 92 Dodge for Melling Racing. Today, he serves as the Vice President of Competition at Hendrick Motorsports. Knaus balances his professional achievements with family life, having been married for nine years and being the proud father of a daughter and a son. But what about the person he is? Well, if Knaus is to be believed, he hasn’t exactly been a patient man. On the Dinner with Racers podcast, he said, “I used to be a real j–k. And I wore it like a badge.”

He began his NASCAR career at Hendrick Motorsports, where he worked as an assistant in the body shop, gaining knowledge from Hall of Famer Ray Evernham as part of the renowned “Rainbow Warriors.” Knaus added, “I was able to put out my headset at the racetrack. I could get stoic and go from place to place. I was focused. And, when people saw that face, they didn’t bother me. It was awesome. I would just put on my headset, and I could collect my thoughts. I could do what I wanted. I don’t have to worry about people. I can use it as an excuse – I didn’t hear you. Knowing full well that I just ignored them.” He said he is more patient now that he has kids and a wife. They have changed his perspective.

To truly appreciate Knaus’ dedication, one must consider a story shared by Ray Evernham, a three-time championship-winning crew chief formerly with Jeff Gordon. In a 2020 interview with the New York Times, Evernham recounted their first encounter. Chad had driven from Alabama, where he was working with Stanley Smith, and had even slept in his car to make it to the interview at Hendrick Motorsports early in the morning. Evernham admired this commitment, noting that it highlighted how serious Chad was about the opportunity.

When they sat down for the interview, Chad was asked the typical question: “Where do you see yourself in five years?” His bold response was, “I want your job.” This unexpected answer took Evernham by surprise and left a lasting impression on him. It was clear that Chad had come to NASCAR with a determined purpose—to be a crew chief and to excel in that role. Evernham expressed his admiration for Chad’s ambition and reflected on how incredible it has been to observe Chad’s journey since their first meeting in 1993.

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How was Johnson and Knaus’s relationship?

Chad Knaus and Jimmie Johnson forged a remarkable partnership beginning in 2002, highlighted by a strong entrance as they captured the pole position for the Daytona 500 in the No. 48 Chevrolet for Hendrick Motorsports. From the outset, the dynamics of their relationship were evident. Team owner Rick Hendrick noted that the duo often clashed like siblings throughout their impressive 17 seasons together. Despite their spirited rivalry—where they sometimes found themselves at odds—their shared passion for racing propelled them to extraordinary success on the track.

Knaus gained a reputation for his innovative strategies, with one of the most notable moments occurring during the AAA Texas 500 at Texas Motor Speedway on November 7, 2010. In a bold maneuver, he swapped pit crew members between the No. 48 and No. 24 teams. This daring decision became pivotal as Johnson competed for a championship while Jeff Gordon’s title hopes were dwindling. Ultimately, this move helped the No. 48 team secure its fifth consecutive championship victory, solidifying the legacy of Knaus and Johnson as one of the most successful partnerships in NASCAR history.

Throughout Jimmie Johnson’s career, which included 83 NASCAR victories, there were many moments when Knaus’s relentless drive for excellence tempered his post-race celebrations. Johnson recalled Associated Press, “There were many times when we were in the media center, collecting the trophy, and as soon as the door was shut, Chad is like, ‘Hey man, that second stint? What happened on that restart? What about this? We gotta tighten it up!’” His commitment to pushing Johnson to improve—even in moments of celebration—was a testament to their complex yet fruitful relationship.

Which is your other favorite crew chief-driver duo?