NASCAR legend Jimmie Johnson issues verdict as Cup Series team sign Daytona 500 winner

NASCAR News News Tuesday, January 6, 2026 at 5:07 PM ET •By Simmey Hannifin Donaldson

NASCAR legend Jimmie Johnson has issued a statement after his Cup Series team confirmed the addition of a Daytona 500-winning crew chief.

Johnson is the majority team owner at Legacy Motor Club, and heading into 2026, the team has confirmed that Justin Alexander has been brought into the organization as crew chief of the No. 43 Toyota.

Having worked with Jimmie Johnson as a shock specialist before going on to become his lead engineer in 2005, it's fair to say the LMC owner knows a thing or two about Alexander's talents.

Of course, since working with Johnson, Alexander has established himself as a respected crew chief in the NASCAR garage, with his record in the Cup Series standing at five wins, 18 top fives and 54 top 10s on top of the box. Those five victories included Austin Dillon's Daytona 500 win in 2018.

Johnson: Alexander is a tremendous addition

As part of Legacy Motor Club's shakeup, Erik Jones' now former crew chief, Ben Beshore, will move into the position of Director of Race Engineering and remain with the organization.

Speaking in an official press release, Johnson said the team's moves were about evolution and refinement of their talent.

“We’re continuing to evolve and refine every part of our race program, and Justin is a tremendous addition to our crew chief lineup,” Johnson explained.

“His experience, communication style, and leadership align perfectly with the direction we’re headed.

We appreciate Ben’s hard work and look forward to his continued contributions as he transitions into his new role.”

Alexander's first race working with Jones will be The Clash exhibition at Bowman Gray Stadium on February 1.