Since 2001, Lowe's has sponsored seven-time champion, Jimmie Johnson. Following the 2018 season, the Home Improvement store will be departing from the No. 48 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 and the sport altogether. Hendrick Motorsports made the announcement on Wednesday.“Working with Hendrick Motorsports, Jimmie, Chad (Knaus) and the entire No. 48 team has been an incredible journey,” said Michael P. McDermott, Lowe’s CCO in the team release. “Rick Hendrick and his organization have been exceptional partners, and we could not have asked for more from Jimmie – a consummate champion and an incredible representative of our brand and his sport."
Despite losing a major sponsor, Johnson has a contract with Hendrick Motorsports through the 2020 season. Johnson has won seven Cup championships, 83 races, and earned 35 pole positions with Lowe's as a primary sponsorship. With Lowe's leaving, it puts the No. 48 team in the sponsor searching position for the first time.
“The No. 48 team is a valuable property and has been an integral part of building the Lowe’s brand, which makes today’s decision difficult as we now look to invest in other strategic initiatives. Although we are evolving our strategy, there’s no question that being a part of seven championships and many history-making moments has been valuable for Lowe’s.”
Johnson, who is 42 years old, is one of the oldest drivers running in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series. Last season Johnson made the playoffs for the 14th consecutive season while earning three victories during the regular season (Texas, Bristol, and Dover). Johnson has managed to secure at least one victory in every season since his first full-time season in 2002.
“I’ll always be grateful to Lowe’s for taking a chance on me and believing that I could win,” Johnson said. “I’m not sure where I’d be right now if they hadn’t committed to the No. 48 team. It’s hard to see them move on, but we’ve made history together and celebrated so much success on and off the track. There’s still a lot left to do in 2018.
“I have more to accomplish in this sport. I feel the best I’ve ever felt physically. I’m motivated. I’m focused on winning races and chasing more championships. Someone (a new sponsor) will be a big part of writing that story with us. I’m not going anywhere.”
Johnson currently sits 26th in Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series points. He has yet to rack up a victory nor a top-five or top-10 finish. (Koelle,2018)
Photo Credit: Brandon Wright/Brandon Wright Photography
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