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Jimmie Johnson “Working Hard” To Get Charter For 2026 | New Driver? | Power Rankings!

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Eric Estepp

The #1 NASCAR content creator on YouTube, Eric Estepp hosts Out of the Groove, a daily talk show covering news and trending topics in the NASCAR fan community.

Jimmie Johnson is making moves again, and this time he’s not just thinking about the present. With Legacy Motor Club showing real signs of life and expansion ambitions heating up, the seven-time champ is looking at the next generation. From naming young prospects like Jesse Love and Connor Zilisch to battling legal drama over charter acquisitions, Johnson’s aggressive push to build a powerhouse team in NASCAR’s future is no longer quiet. Meanwhile, Daniel Suárez’s sudden split from Trackhouse opens the door for a possible short-term veteran option — if, and that’s a big if, Legacy can secure that elusive third charter.

  • Johnson confirms Legacy wants a third car in 2026, but ongoing lawsuits with Rick Ware Racing are complicating that vision
  • Jesse Love is again linked to Legacy, even though some say he’s not Cup ready just yet
  • Connor Zilisch seems headed for Trackhouse, but is he the most “plug-and-play” young driver available?
  • Could Daniel Suárez land at Legacy on a short deal while the team waits for Love or another rookie to mature?

If Jimmie gets that third charter, the driver market could get very interesting. With the Cup grid tightening and teams jockeying for OEM leverage, a move like this could shake up the balance, especially if Legacy ends up parting ways with Toyota. If Legacy gets a third car, who should get that seat: a rising star, a reliable vet, or someone completely off the radar? Let us know!

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