CONCORD, N.C. -- While the racing industry was rocked by Jimmie Johnson's announcement, one of the members of the Johnson household was more concerned about breakfast.
During his press conference to discuss his decision to make 2020 his final full-time season in the Cup Series, Johnson revealed his 6-year-old daughter Lydia was more focused on her pancakes than her dad’s announcement to step down from full-time NASCAR Cup Series racing after the 2020 season.
“Yesterday when we were having breakfast, I was showing the girls the video we pushed out on social media,” the driver said. “Breakfast is a very important part of the day, a focal point for my kids. Lydia was midway through her pancakes when I started the video and could not be bothered by the video and wanted me to pass the butter.”
Thursday was a special day for the seven-time champion to share the thought process behind his decision and reflect on his successful career. What made it even more memorable was being surrounded by his family and friends, including his two daughters Genevieve and Lydia, who welcomed him and Hendrick Motorsports owner Rick Hendrick to the stage.
“It’s so special to have them here today,” the driver of the No. 48 Ally Chevrolet said.
“I feel like my girls, they’re so young, they don’t really understand what that means, and I don’t think I really do, either,” Johnson said of what’s to come after the 2020 season. “I don’t really know what ’21 is going to look like myself. But my kids are excited. They’re having fun with it and excited for more dad time.”
Throughout Thursday’s event, Johnson was commended on his dedication to his family by several of his teammates that played a critical part in the driver’s iconic career.
“Honestly, for Jimmie I was very happy for him because he accomplished so much,” said former No. 48 team crew chief Chad Knaus. “He deserves the opportunity to spend time with Lydia and Genevieve and Chandra and go and experience what it is to be a ‘normal family.’”
As for Johnson, he might not be sure what 2021 and beyond will hold, but he will have family by his side.