A prodigious young talent who once lit up the NASCAR scene was engulfed in controversy that had his career spinning out of control. It all began with a simple “like” on social media, a seemingly harmless gesture that would trigger a chain reaction. But fear not, for this story isn’t just about the fall. At the heart of this saga stands none other than the seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and owner of Legacy Motor Club, Jimmie Johnson.
In a recent episode of the ‘Door Bumper Clear’ podcast, NASCAR insiders Brett Griffin, Freddie Kraft, TJ Majors, and Casey Boat discussed the situation involving Noah Gragson and his suspension. During the conversation, they touched upon Jimmy Johnson’s ongoing support for Gragson.
Noah Gragson’s Uphill Battle for NASCAR Redemption
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A controversial exit, an indefinite suspension, and a young racer’s dreams hanging in the balance. That’s the storm Noah Gragson found himself navigating after liking an insensitive meme. But as the dust settled, Jimmie Johnson emerged as an owner and a concerned friend.
Brett stated, “I think the bigger thing there is you know (Casey Boat) like looking at this from our fan base’s perspective. Man, they melted down against Legacy Motor Club and Jimmy Johnson when Noah got suspended and I don’t know what our fan base thought would happen.”
He added, “I don’t know how they thought he wouldn’t get suspended and so for Jimmy to state publicly that he still has a relationship with him, I think speaks highly of Jimmy [Johnson] as a person and and Noah he needs that support.”
Griffin also highlighted the significance of veteran support for Gragson, including Dale Earnhardt Jr, known for championing second chances in the sport. Griffin expressed optimism about Gragson’s potential for a second chance and wasn’t overly concerned about where he might land in the Cup Series. Instead, he believed that Gragson needed to focus on achieving success elsewhere to open doors for a return to the Cup Series.
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In a candid conversation on the Dirty Mo Media Next Level podcast, Johnson confessed to checking in on Gragson not as a boss but as a buddy. He emphasized, “I mean, in the beginning, it was certainly more concerned… like it was a big moment, and I was just thinking of him as a friend first and foremost.”
"I'm proud of him." @JimmieJohnson shares with us that he continues to check in on @NoahGragson as he works towards making a return to racing.
📺 FULL CLIP: https://t.co/yygGQFa8Tr pic.twitter.com/THM3M7MAcC
— Dirty Mo Media (@DirtyMoMedia) September 10, 2023
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But the road to redemption in NASCAR is no Sunday drive. Reinstatement is only the first hurdle. Gragson must navigate the treacherous terrain of public opinion and sponsorship woes. Legacy Motor Club has already announced John-Hunter Nemechek as the driver for the No. 42 car in 2024, closing the door on a Cup ride. Gragson faces an uphill battle to secure sponsors and make his presence felt once more on the racing circuit.
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