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Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson-owned Legacy Motor Club is entering a new era. Recently, a major restructuring has given Johnson a majority stake in the team. This move shifts control of the team, with co-owner Maury Gallagher stepping back from daily operations to serve as an ambassador alongside NASCAR legend Richard Petty. Apart from Johnson, LMC also roped in a new partner as Investment firm Knighthead Capital Management bought a minority stake in the team. For Johnson, this change accelerates his transition from driver to executive. The NASCAR legend will be leaving his life in England to return to Charlotte and lead Legacy’s future.
While this shift is a significant change for LMC and Johnson, it may also open the door for another sports legend. NFL icon Tom Brady has stakes in Knighthead and the recent development brings him closer to NASCAR ownership. While Johnson revealed that the latest deal doesn’t involve Brady, there are speculations about his new racing venture.
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Tom Brady’s Possible NASCAR Entry
The seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady owns a significant stake in the Knighthead Capital. While this current deal with LMC does not include him, there are powerful signs that could change. According to various media reports, Jimmie Johnson, and Brady are in discussion about fielding a car in the upcoming Indy 500.
Two sporting legends are looking to field former Toro Rosso F1 driver Sebastian Bourdais. He can race for the Chip Ganassi Racing at the 2025 Indy 500. While there is no official confirmation about the partnership, this could be the much-needed publicity for the sport. As IndyCar enters its first season with Fox Sports, this iconic multi-sport partnership could set the tone. It wouldn’t be the first time the sport would see an iconic American athlete team up with a NASCAR driver to set up one of the biggest teams in the sport. At the same time, Jimmie Johnson’s words have created a sense of anticipation among fans.
Notably, Johnson has expressed his desire to explore other racing events. “As time goes on and opportunities present themselves to Legacy Motor Club, we’ll have an open eye and certainly hope to expand. I really think there is an opportunity in North America to have a bigger presence. If some good breaks go our way and some good fortune, we’ll have some other great things to talk about,” Johnson told media during Rolex 24.
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via Imago
NASCAR, Motorsport, USA Jimmie Johnson Announcement Nov 4, 2022 Avondale, Arizona, USA Jimmie Johnson speaks with the media during a press conference, PK, Pressekonferenz at Phoenix Raceway. Jimmie Johnson finalized an ownership stake within the Petty GMS organization starting in 2023, and Johnson will also drive in select races for the team starting at the Daytona 500. Avondale Phoenix Raceway Arizona USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xGaryxA.xVasquezx 20221104_gav_sv5_007
Moreover, if Brady moves forward with Johnson in IndyCar, it could pave the way for deeper involvement in NASCAR. The newly announced LMC and Knighthead partnership creates a simple path for Brady to eventually become a co-owner. Notably, Brady is no stranger to high-profile sports investments. He has shares in the Las Vegas Raiders and Birmingham City FC. His brand power could bring fresh marketing appeal to Legacy, drawing in more sponsorship deals and global attention to the NASCAR team.
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Why this is the best time for Brady’s NASCAR entry?
Jimmie Johnson’s takeover comes when Legacy Motor Club is looking to improve. As initial owners have stepped back from key roles team needs a fresh perspective and Johnson, along with Tom Brady, can provide this. Notably, struggled in 2024 but remains optimistic about its second season with Toyota.
Star driver Erik Jones will continue driving the No. 43 car, while John Hunter Nemechek takes the wheel of the No. 42. Apart from them, Jimmie Johnson himself will make several appearances at select races, including the Daytona 500 and Coca-Cola 600. Speaking about it, Johnson had said, “I’m thrilled to be returning to competition in 2025. These two races hold a special place in my heart, and I’ve always loved the energy and excitement that surrounds them.”
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However, a successful IndyCar venture with Brady will also help Johnson to attract more sponsors for the NASCAR team. It will also give him space to think about his own race. Although this all is still under consideration fans would expect the two sporting legends to crack a deal. What do you think will Tom Brady finally enter the NASCAR?
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