Johnson Official for Rolex 24

[Schwartz Fan]

Johnson Official for Rolex 24

RacingOne Report


Gainsco/Bob Stallings Racing announced Wednesday that two-time NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson will join its lineup of champion racers for the world’s most demanding sports car challenge, the 46th running of the Rolex 24 At Daytona Speedway January 26-27.

The NASCAR superstar will pilot the No. 99 Lowe’s/GAINSCO/Bob Stallings Racing Pontiac-Riley alongside defending Rolex Series Daytona Prototype champions Alex Gurney and Jon Fogarty, and 1996 Champ Car titlist Jimmy Vasser. The four champions, all of whom hail from California, will join forces to compete for one of motorsports’ most coveted prizes — a custom Rolex watch representing a victory at America’s premier sports car race.

“Jimmie is not only a great driver, but a terrific guy,” said team ower Bob Stallings. “He’s a proven champion in all aspects, both on the track and off, and I’m thrilled that he’s joining the Gainsco/Bob Stallings Racing family. Being from California as well, I feel a special bond with these guys. We communicate and work well together, and I expect that to translate into success on the track.”

Johnson is equally enthusiastic about starting 2008 with a championship team.

“This is going to be a lot of fun,” Johnson said. “I really want to win the Rolex 24 and have tried a couple of times. I think joining this team will give me the best shot ever. What these guys were able to do last season was amazing. I have nothing but the highest respect for this team, drivers and the Rolex Series, and hope I can celebrate with them when we roll the Lowe’s/Gainsco car into victory lane.”

Johnson, 32, earned his second NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series title in 2007, capping a season that saw him earn 10 victories for Hendrick Motorsports. He owns 33 NEXTEL Cup victories — 18th on the all time list. The El Cajon native has competed three times in the Rolex 24 at Daytona. He finished second in 2005 and 28th in 2004 driving for Howard-Boss Motorsports and 36th for the Riley-Matthews team last year. Johnson also competed in July’s Brumos Porsche 250 at Daytona where he qualified on the front row, second only to pole winner Fogarty.

With his driver lineup complete, Stallings is anxious to begin defending his 2007 title.

“We plan to take on all comers and there’s no better place to start than at the world’s most prestigious endurance race,” Stallings said. “With this incredible lineup we have more than a fair chance of capturing one of the most elite titles in motorsports — winners of the Rolex 24 At Daytona.”

The team began testing November 14 at Daytona International Speedway and will participate in the traditional three-day Rolex 24 test January 4-6. During the race, the normally red No. 99 will also carry the blue and silver Lowe’s paint scheme similar to Johnson’s NASCAR paint scheme.


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