Jimmie Johnson Tests Positive For Covid-19

 

Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson has become the first NASCAR driver to test positive for Covid-19. Johnson will have to miss this weekend’s race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway as a result. Johnson is reportedly asymptomatic, but will not be able to return to the sport cleared by a physician, according to Hendrick Motorsports.

Jimmie was tested  after his wife Chandra tested positive for the Coronavirus.

In a statement released by NASCAR, Johnson said his first priority is the health and safety of his loved ones and teammates are his first priority.

“I’ve never missed a race in my Cup career, but I know it’s going to be very hard to watch from the sidelines when I’m supposed to be out there competing. Although this situation is extremely disappointing, I’m going to come back ready to win races and put ourselves in playoff contention.”

Justin Allgaier is set to be Johnson’s replacement and will drive the No. 48 Chevy on Sunday. He is a full-time driver in the Xfinity Series in the No. 7 car for JR Motorsports, which is co-owned by Hendrick, the owner of Johnson’s car.

Tags: , ,