Caleb Whisler, Staff Writer
Hendrick Motorsports announced on Saturday that Chad Knaus has re-signed with the organization for two more years as the crew chief of the No. 48 Chevrolet piloted by seven-time NASCAR premier series champion, Jimmie Johnson.
The terms of the contract for Knaus with Hendrick Motorsports coincides with Johnson’s contract. Johnson re-signed with the organization in 2017 for three more years.
Knaus and Johnson have become the most tenured driver-crew chief combination in premier series history in just their 17th season together.
“It probably has a lot to do with Jimmie’s patience. He is a very tolerant individual. I think that has a lot to do with it, but I think Jimmie and I we have gotten to the point where we really understand one another,” Knaus said about the relationship with Johnson. “There is not a big question on the effort or the amount of effort that is going in from one side nor the other. We deeply care for one another obviously, families, daughters, and I have a son coming, so we have grown a lot together through life and I think that has a lot to do with it.”
Prior to the Quaker State 400 at Kentucky Speedway, Knaus spoke with Kickin’ The Tires about the new contract.
“It’s exciting. I love Hendrick Motorsports. I have been there since the early ’90’s. I have seen this place grow. It’s been an honor to work at this company. Jimmie and I are obviously very close and tight. I enjoy the competition still. I enjoy being a crew chief. It’s good,” Knaus said on pit road.
In his tenure with Johnson, Knaus has collected 81 wins, 224 top-fives, 347 top-10’s and 35 poles.