"He just changed my life" - When Jimmie Johnson reflected on his deep connection with Rick Hendrick

One of the greatest NASCAR Cup Series drivers, Jimmie Johnson, reveals how Rick Hendrick had a huge impact on his life and the success that followed. With seven Cup Series championships, Johnson is tied with NASCAR legends Richard Petty and Dale Earnhardt with the most titles.

In over two-decade-long storied career, former Hendrick Motorsports driver Johnson has driven for Rick Hendrick since his full-time debut in 2002. In almost 700 starts, the 49-year-old secured 83 wins and is ranked sixth in the all-time Cup Series win list.

Before debuting in the Xfinity Series, Johnson started his career in off-road racing and late-model touring cars. NASCAR legend Jeff Gordon first noticed Johnson's talent in the Xfinity and convinced Mr. H to sign him in NASCAR's premier division and the rest is history.

In a 2020 conversation, Johnson discussed his connection with Hendrick and how it all came together. He said:

"When I sat down with Rick and understood his process in choosing me to drive the new car that was coming to Hendrick Motorsports, I didn’t realize all that went into it and how he knew about me for so long."

Furthermore, he added:

"Once I had face time with Rick, he knew a lot about me. He seemed very comfortable with me and that only helped me become more comfortable. It really is family, and the connection is deep and it’s real."

Reflecting on the ups and downs, the California native claimed that Rick Hendrick was always in his corner and supported him in the tough times. He continued:

"He’s changed my life, there’s no way around it and he’s helped me be a better person, a better man, a better father. All the charitable things he’s enlightened me on and supported me on and encouraged me to do."

"And really, he’s just been somebody so special to me, to Shannie, to my kids. You know honestly, just changed my life personally and professionally," Johnson concluded.

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"Thank you for treating me like family," - Jimmie Johnson commemorates the Hendrick family

During the Class of 2024 Induction ceremony, Jimmie Johnson was inducted as the NASCAR Hall of Famer. In his speech, Johnson shared his gratitude towards the Hendrick Motorsports owner Rick Hendrick and his family.

NASCAR legend Jimmie Johnson said (via NASCAR):

"I first met Rick Hendrick in 2000 in his airplane and served me a cheeseburger. I was racing against his son, Ricky, who promised me a ride home after the race. Ricky was out early with mechanical issue and I assume they would have been long gone, but in typical kind Hendrick fashion, he and his entire family waited over three hours for me."

He added:

"Over the years, we've shared so many incredible successes. Linda and Rick, thank you for treating me like family."

Rick Hendrick and Jimmie Johnson - Source: Imagn

Currently, Johnson competes part-time in the NASCAR Cup Series for his team, Legacy Motor Club, driving the #84. He was last seen in action for the Brickyard 400 race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.