This Wednesday morning NASCAR team owners Maury Gallagher, Jimmie Johnson and team ambassador Richard Petty have announced that Petty GMS will be changing its name. Legacy Motor Club.
“After thinking about a new name for our team, Maury and I recognized an opportunity to do something special and different,” says Johnson. “We felt it was important to have a name that respects the past and acknowledges the future. The term ‘Motor Club’ refers to the car clubs of the past.”
Legacy Motor Club will field two full-time cars in the NASCAR Cup Series: Noah Gragson in the No. 42 Chevrolet and Erik Jones in the No. 43 Chevrolet, with seven-time Cup champion Johnson driving part-time for the 2023 season. .
“When I see the ’42 and ’43 cars, regardless of who the driver was, is or may be in the future, I want our fans to remember the Petty history that came with them, and that history will continue to be there. . Made with LEGACY MC,” says Richard Petty.
On November 4, 2022, Petty GMS owner Gallagher and president Richard Petty announced that Johnson would join the board as part owner and drive in select Cup series for the 2023 season. Johnson retired from NASCAR after the 2020 season and drove in the 2021 and 2022 seasons in the IndyCar Series for Chip Ganassi Racing.
“We made a lot of progress during the 2022 season – winning the Southern 500 at Darlington with Erik and bringing Noah into the team for 2023,” says Gallagher. “With Jimmie stepping into the ownership role, we knew that with his experience and knowledge, change was inevitable. Our goal is to win competitions, win championships and represent our partners by performing at the highest level. Legacy MC’s new look allows us to stand out and create a team environment that breeds success.”
During today’s announcement, Johnson answered one of NASCAR’s burning questions: What number would he race when he returns to the Cup Series? Mirroring his iconic No. 48 Chevrolet with Hendrick Motorsports, the seven-time NASCAR Cup champion went 84.
“I’m looking forward to the new era of the No. 84 Chevrolet with the Legacy MC and getting the chance to drive the new Next Gen car this season,” adds Johnson.
Legacy Motor Club will make its track debut on Sunday, February 5, 2023 in the Busch Light Clash at the LA Memorial Coliseum.
