Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and former NTT INDYCAR SERIES driver Jimmie Johnson will attempt a unique “double” on Sunday, May 26 for NBC Sports, joining the network’s broadcast team for its on-site coverage of the 108th Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge and driving later that evening in the NASCAR Cup Series Coca-Cola 600.
No one has attempted the feat of broadcasting from Indianapolis Motor Speedway and driving the same day at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
Johnson will contribute to NBC Sports’ pre-race and post-race coverage of “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” starting at 11 a.m. ET Sunday, May 26. He previously contributed to NBC studio coverage at the 2021 Indy 500, the year before he made his sole start in the race.
“To have the opportunity to experience ‘The Greatest Spectacle in Racing’ once again is such an honor,” Johnson said. “I was part of the NBC broadcast team in 2021, and it just fueled the fire I needed to make my childhood dream of racing in the Indianapolis 500 one day a reality. Competing in this race as a driver was a chance of a lifetime, so to be able to experience the pageantry again is just so special.
“Even though I’ve never been able to do the ‘double’ as a driver, May 26th is going to be a very busy day. After the broadcast, I’ll fly to Charlotte Motor Speedway and drive in the Coca-Cola 600. I’m so thankful to NBC for the opportunity and continued partnership.”
Johnson’s “double” joins the “Hendrick 1100” attempt by 2021 NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Larson to race in the 108th Indianapolis 500 and the Coca-Cola 600 on May 26, becoming the fifth driver to achieve that feat and the first since Kurt Busch in 2014. Johnson is one of the legends of IMS, with four victories in the Brickyard 400.
“Any time you can add one of the greatest drivers of all time and an icon of the sport, you jump at the opportunity,” said Sam Flood, lead producer for NBC Sports’ motorsports coverage. “We are thrilled to be working with Jimmie and adding his unique perspective on every race he covers, as well as having him become the first person ever to do the ‘double’ – history awaits.”
More details about NBC Sports’ Indianapolis 500 broadcast team will be announced soon.