There may be three more months to go for the NTT IndyCar Series season opener race, but pre-season has already begun for most of these drivers. Joining the pack is newcomer and seven-time Cup Series champion, Jimmie Johnson.
Driving for Chip Ganassi Racing in partnership with Carvana Racing, the 45-year-old attained some initial practice by putting in the laps in testing. Following some work on the simulator, he has now begun actual work, transitioning into the open-wheel racing segment.
Johnson took out the time to share his thoughts during a break in the session. He revealed that his initial focus laid out on understanding how to maximize performance in the braking zones.
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Jimmie Johnson said he is ‘having a ton of fun’ at the Sebring testing session
A video, courtesy of Carvana Racing, saw Johnson state, “Here at Sebring, having a great day getting a fair amount of laps in the race car. Really just trying to understand how to slow the car down so quickly and maximize the car in the braking zones.
“My teammates have been great, working really well with me, helping me get up to speed. Just having a ton of fun.”
Johnson has previously had tests with the racing team on two occasions, at Barber Motorsports Park and later at the Laguna Seca. But with further hands-on work, the former Hendrick Motorsports driver is slowly getting up to scratch with the workings of his machinery.
Johnson’s immediate commitment will be at the Rolex 24 at Daytona event
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“So proud to have the Carvana colors on the race car, got a lot of the equipment here in place. And looking really good and very excited for the 2021 car unveil coming down the pipeline before long,” concluded Johnson.
Gone in a flash 💥@JimmieJohnson is laying down some laps in the No. 48 at @sebringraceway!@CarvanaRacing | @IndyCar pic.twitter.com/UErz7XFsm6
— Chip Ganassi Racing (@CGRTeams) January 18, 2021
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In just less than a fortnight’s time, Johnson will compete as part of a four-driver team in the renowned Rolex 24 at Daytona race. Sporting the No.48 Cadillac, he will hope to add yet another feather to his cap by winning the sportscar endurance championship event.
👌@CarvanaRacing @CGRTeams @IndyCar pic.twitter.com/ENI9qnSlsW
— Jimmie Johnson (@JimmieJohnson) January 19, 2021
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Regardless, it feels like 2021 could become a very eventful year for Johnson despite retiring from the Cup Series. His fans will hope that he continues to come up with the goods in a new series just the way he did in the top stock car racing division all these years.
READ MORE – “Hard for a Lot of Us” – Bubba Wallace Reveals Emotions During Jimmie Johnson’s NASCAR Farewell Race