(Cover Photo Credit: Chris Graythen - Getty Images/Nascar Media)
By Logan Morris
Tuesday it was announced that Legacy Motor Club will be switching manufacturers from Chevrolet to Toyota in 2024. The announcement marks the latest significant change in the organization.
There was a time when the idea of Jimmie Johnson in anything other than a Chevrolet was unheard of. That changed when he ventured into IndyCar. Perhaps even more surprising is the fact that the race team that Richard Petty is associated with will run Toyotas.
So, how does Team Ambassador, “The King” Richard Petty feel about the shift in 2024? Well, according to his Team owners, he’s all for it. In a conversation with media on Tuesday afternoon, Legacy Motor Club Co-Owner Jimmie Johnson spoke about Petty’s reaction to the news: “He was one of our first calls. He was really excited about the opportunity and understands what this means for the Club.” Co-Owner Maury Gallagher added “[Petty] blesses and encourages all things that make us better.” Legacy Motor Club drivers were also made available to the media. Erik Jones is looking forward to getting the chance to forge his own legacy in Petty’s #43. “I wanted to come in and kind of make my own chapter in the 43. I mean, obviously Richard’s had quite a run in the 43, but I’d sure like to make my own mark here as well.” Jones certainly will continue to get the chance to create his own legacy in the #43. In its storied history, 2024 will mark the first time it has been a Toyota. Toyota Racing Development President David Wilson alluded to the fact that this move could ruffle some feathers.
“I know that this is a polarizing partnership for many of Jimmie’s fans, for many of The King’s fans, and undoubtedly some will feel like it’s a bit sacrilegious, but I’m not worried about that because I trust that over time our demonstrated respect for this partnership, for people, and the way we carry ourselves will soften that.”
Legacy Motor Club will remain with Chevrolet for the remainder of the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series season.