Jimmie Johnson Inks Extension To Remain With Hendrick Motorsports

Sports News - November 20th, 2009 - Written by Jimmy

It's official now, Jimmie Johnson will remain with Hendrick Motorsports through the 2015 NASCAR season. Since 2002, Jimmie Johnson has been an integral part of the Hendrick racing team, and is now locked in to continue with his dominance in NASCAR.

You see, Johnson is an almost lock to win his 4th consecutive NASCAR title, something which has never been done before in the sport. Currently, Johnson holds a 108 point lead over teammate Mark Martin, which is likely no to be overcome. No matter what any one else does, Johnson must finish 25th or better to cement his legacy as one of the best drivers ever.

In an interview with the Associated Press, team owner Rick Hendrick said, "Jimmie is charting new territory in our sport, and that's due to a combination of natural talent and unsurpassed work ethic. How he's committed himself is just incredible, and it shows in everything that he does -- not just on the racetrack."

There is no doubt that Hendrick is happy to go ahead and get the Johnson deal done before the contract expired at the end of the 2010 season. Hendrick isn't alone though. Title sponsor of the 48 car, Lowes, had already locked into their sponsorship through the 2013 season, assuring them that Johnson will be piloting their logo and brand around NASCAR tracks nationwide.

"Jimmie Johnson and Hendrick Motorsports are a key part of our marketing efforts and outreach," Lowe's chairman Robert Niblock said to the AP. "We believe this is the best combination in racing, and we're proud to have Jimmie carry the Lowe's name in NASCAR."

However, with all the good news, it has still yet to be determined what Chad Knaus, Johnson's crew chief, will do. At this time, it has not been announced whether or not Knaus will remain in place when his contract terminates at the end of the 2010 season. Knaus has been paired with Johnson since 2002, Johnson's rookie season.

As for this weekend's season finale, Jimmie Johnson is currently favored to win the race at 5 to 1 according to the NASCAR Betting Lines offered at online sportsbooks. Lines will be open at Bodog Sportsbook til November 22 around 2:50pm ET. Bettors have until then to bet, and to check out other bets such as NASCAR Head to Head Betting Lines.

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