“We’ll See As 2021 Develops” – Jimmie Johnson Does Not Rule out the Idea of Running the Indy 500

Having driven a stock car competitively for nearly two decades, moving to IndyCar was always going to be a challenge even for the great Jimmie Johnson. The specifics, the handling, and the feeling of oneness with the car model will all be different. Nevertheless, he is definitely looking forward to it.

Johnson is also due to run the prestigious Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona in less than two months’ time. For his love of sports cars, the endurance championship should be a fantastic opportunity for him to transition into his IndyCar career as well.

But will he be racing the all-important Indianapolis 500 that is part of the IndyCar competition? Johnson opened up on his approach, moving into a different league and stepping up preparations for the same.

Johnson stated, “I think my journey for the 500 will really take place when I’m around Indy cars more. It’s easy to have a perspective of things when you’re watching on television.”

Jimmie Johnson hopes to test on an oval

“And then the further you get into a sport, the deeper the understanding is so I’ll see as the year develops and I hope to be able to test on an oval and experience it firsthand.”

Many popular racing drivers have collected trophies in the prized event in IndyCar. However, for the former Hendrick Motorsports driver, it is all about making the best of his current opportunities. And then later seeing how the year progresses for him.

“I’m not really sure if there’s even an opportunity there if I do change my mind. But we’ll see as 2021 develops, and hopefully, I can get at least a day on an oval and see how it goes,” concluded Johnson.

Johnson will race with Chip Ganassi Racing on a two-year deal

Following his retirement from NASCAR, Johnson inked a deal for 2021 and 2022 with Chip Ganassi Racing to experience what IndyCar is all about. Given his slight inexperience in the division, the team might prefer teammate Tony Kanaan to race in the Indy 500.

The indication is that Johnson will race in at least 13 races for the team next year. With the eye to taking part in more events the following year. As it stands, though, it is anybody’s guess whether he will be in the car to race the famed Indy 500 somewhere close to August 2021.

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