Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson has been cleared to return to competition in time for Sunday’s race at Kentucky Speedway. Johnson was sidelined for the Big Machine Hand Sanitizer 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on July 5 after a positive COVID-19 test the previous Friday.
“My family is so grateful for the incredible love and support we’ve received over the last several days,” Johnson said. “I especially want to thank Justin Allgaier for stepping in for me at Indy and being a true pro. I’m excited about getting back to business with my team this weekend.”
The announcement of Johnson’s return only five days after testing positive for COVID-19 is a result of the driver producing two negative test results at least 24 hours apart. Johnson’s original test came after his wife, Chandra Johnson, tested positive. Chandra Johnson was tested because she was experiencing allergy-like symptoms. Johnson as asymptomatic.
After Johnson tested positive, four Hendrick Motorsports crew members also were tested. They all tested negative.
NASCAR Xfinity Series regular Justin Allgaier drove Johnson’s #48 HMS Chevrolet at Indianapolis but was collected in a multi-car crash on pit road during a lap-12 competition caution. The Indy race was the first race Johnson has missed since becoming a full-time Cup Series driver in 2002.
