“Reminds me of myself in a lot of ways”

Riley Herbst has signed a multi-year deal with Jimmie Johnson’s co-owned Legacy Motor Club. Johnson has revealed the reason behind adding Herbst to LMC’s 2027 plans, making a striking comparison between the young NASCAR driver and himself.

LMC is taking major steps towards shaping its 2027 driver lineup after the organization announced that it will part ways with John Hunter Nemechek after the 2026 season and has now signed Herbst as the team continues building for the future. Herbst will drive the LMC’s newly minted third full-time charter, the No. 84 Toyota Camry XSE, starting with Daytona 500 on Sunday, February 21, 2027

Speaking to SiriusXM NASCAR Radio about the decision behind hiring Herbst, Jimmie Johnson revealed that he was impressed by the driver’s work ethic and commitment. NASCAR legend also believes that Herbst reminds him of himself when he was younger.

“Riley fits our needs, and I feel like with our mentorship and time at Legacy and where we’re taking things is the perfect fit for us. Got a long history with his family. So deep trust in, the support and understanding of his world in general. And then being able to be around Riley the last couple of years, a kid works his tail off. So I’m really impressed with his work ethic and commitment. And reminds me of myself in a lot of ways,” Johnson said.

“I was fighting to prove myself, but it would just work, work, work. And once it all clicked, you know, I owned it. And I think he’s on a very similar journey,” he added.

Riley Herbst, who currently competes full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series with 23XI Racing will move to Legacy Motor Club alongside long-time sponsor Monster Energy in 2027.

Jimmie Johnson is confident about Riley Herbst capabilities

Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson shares a natural connection with the Herbst family that extends beyond the racetrack.

In a team release, Johnson said:

“I have watched Riley grow as a driver, and I know what he is capable of. The connection our families share through off-road racing made this feel like a natural fit from the start. I am excited to give him a home where he can continue to develop and show what he can do in the Cup Series.”

Jimmie Johnson’s LMC is expanding to a three-car team with Herbst alongside Erik Jones. The replacement of Nemechek for 2027 remains unannounced following adjustments to the roster.

Edited by Yash Soni