By Seth Eggert, Staff Writer
After missing his first NASCAR Cup Series race in 19 years, Jimmie Johnson was cleared to return to the track.
A few days prior to the Big Machine Hand Sanitizer 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Johnson tested positive for COVID-19. Although he was asymptomatic, the seven-time Cup Series Champion sat out of the race at the Brickyard in accordance with NASCAR guidelines. Johnson’s 663 consecutive start streak came to an abrupt end as a result.
Johnson was retested on Monday and Tuesday. Both tests were negative. The driver of the No. 48 Ally Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE for Hendrick Motorsports received clearance from his physician to return to competition Tuesday night. NASCAR required two negative tests separated by 24 hours and clearance from a physician for Johnson to return to the track.
“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.”
Four Hendrick crew members were quarantined on Friday as a precaution following Johnson’s positive test. All four tested negative for COVID-19. Johnson’s team will have its regular personnel in the Quaker State 400 presented by Walmart at Kentucky Speedway.
NASCAR Xfinity Series driver Justin Allgaier filled in for Johnson at Indianapolis. The day was short-lived for the No. 48 team. Allgaier was swept up in a scary multi-car incident on pit road on lap 14. The JR Motorsports driver returned to the track briefly before the damage sidelined the No. 48 three laps later.
Despite sitting out at Indianapolis, Johnson is still in the top-16 in points. Having received a waiver, the 44-year-old is still eligible for the playoffs. Johnson 15th in points, is 30 ahead of the cutoff, held by Austin Dillon, and 36-points ahead of Erik Jones, the first driver on the outside looking in. He is also 247-points behind leader Kevin Harvick.