Jimmie Johnson will not be racing as planned this weekend after he tested positive for COVID-19 coronavirus.
The 44-year-old driver, who is a seven time champion, is the first person from NASCAR to test positive for the virus.
“My first priority is the health and safety of my loved ones and my teammates,” Jimmie shared in a statement on NASCAR’s website. “I’ve never missed a race in my Cup career, but I know it’s going to be very hard to watch from the sidelines when I’m supposed to be out there competing.”
He added, “Although this situation is extremely disappointing, I’m going to come back ready to win races and put ourselves in playoff contention.”
NASCAR also released a statement on Jimmie‘s condition, and shared that he wouldn’t be allowed back on the track until his symptoms were completely gone.
“Jimmie is a true battle-tested champion, and we wish him well in his recovery,” NASCAR’s statement read. “NASCAR has granted Jimmie a playoff waiver, and we look forward to his return as he races for an eighth NASCAR Cup Series championship.”
Find out who else just tested positive for coronavirus on JustJared.com now…
