The No. 48 car is going to look different starting in 2019.
Hendrick Motorsports on Wednesday announced Jimmie Johnson and his team will no longer be sponsored by Lowe's beginning in 2019. Michael P. McDermott, Lowe’s chief customer officer, said the company will be looking to invest in other strategic initiatives.
“Working with Hendrick Motorsports, Jimmie, Chad (Knaus) and the entire No. 48 team has been an incredible journey,” McDermott said in a statement. “Rick Hendrick and his organization have been exceptional partners, and we could not have asked for more from Jimmie — a consummate champion and an incredible representative for our brand and his sport."
Lowe's has sponsored Johnson and the No. 48 car since 2001. It is one of the longest running sponsorships in racing.
During the time working with Johnson, the team won seven championships, including five straight from 2006-2010.
“Jimmie is one of the greatest champions and ambassadors in all of sports and still at the top of his game,” Hendrick Motorsports owner Rick Hendrick said. “This change opens up all kinds of possibilities, and we look forward to having conversations with potential new partners. It’s a special opportunity with an iconic athlete and team.”
The team has not announced who its next sponsor will be. Johnson is signed up through the 2020 season.
