HAMPTON, Ga. – Tuesday, Jimmie Johnson participated in a test session at Atlanta Motor Speedway, and the driver was accompanied by his crew chief for the 2019 season, Kevin Meendering.
The test was a chance not only to gather data on the 2019 rules package, but for the driver and crew chief to talk shop.
“Not only have we been here working on the car side, but we just spent an hour in the transporter talking about fundamentals of the work week and my interaction with the team and how I want to lead, how I want him to lead, how he wants to lead, what he thinks my responsibilities should be,” Johnson explained. “So, just a lot of little details to sort out that only really time will help with.”
The driver noted that “time is the most important thing in any relationship,” so he appreciated the opportunity to “talk shop” with his crew chief for next season.
Meendering currently serves as crew chief of NASCAR Xfinity Series playoff contender Elliott Sadler. Prior to joining JR Motorsports, Meendering spent 16 years at Hendrick Motorsports during which he held multiple roles including the lead engineer for the No. 88 team.
Johnson and Meendering got to know one another during that time, but with the duo set to begin a new working relationship next year, both men were appreciative of the opportunity to work together at the Atlanta test session.
“I think it was great just to spend time with Jimmie and develop that communication,” Meendering said. “I think it’s only going to help us.”
Johnson said the two were able to talk on a deep level about the car, the No. 48 team, what they like as individuals and how they envision race weekends playing out while simply learning more about one another.
“Right now, all that’s important,” the driver said.
“Every minute that we get together right now is going to be helpful and help make us more competitive come 2019. So, this has been a great opportunity for us.”