Jimmie Johnson, Mike Rockenfeller and Jenson Button have been named drivers for Hendrick Motorsports’ NASCAR Garage 56 project for this year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans.
The star trio, subject to an invitation to participate in the race, will start in a modified Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.
Their machine will line up alongside Hypercar, LMP2 and GTE sports cars, but will not race in any of the major categories.
Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson will make his Le Mans debut with two drivers who have previously competed in the race.
Rockenfeller won Le Mans in 2010 with Audi, while 2009 Formula 1 world champion Jenson Button drove for SMP Racing in 2018.
Project management has decided that Jordan Taylor, who works day-to-day for Corvette Racing, will be the reserve driver.
“As a racing fan, it has always been my dream to drive these cars, to fight against the greatest drivers and to participate in all kinds of events. – said the 2009 F1 world champion.
“Coming June, many of those dreams will come true in one event when my two buddies and I have the opportunity to bring NASCAR to the world stage.”
The modified Camaro has been driven at several US racetracks, including Sebring, Virginia International Raceway, Carolina Motorsports Park and Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, where it completed its first laps last August.
“I’m super excited. Participating in the 24 Hours of Le Mans is one of my biggest dreams.” says Johnson.
“I am grateful to have had this opportunity and I promise to give the best of myself” – added.
The NASCAR Garage 56 project was announced last year at the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring as a collaboration between Hendrick, NASCAR, IMSA and the Goodyear brand.
Technical details of the car have yet to be confirmed.
“Since the start of the Garage 56 project, our goal has been to partner with the best drivers in the world to represent us at Le Mans.” commented Jim France, president and CEO of NASCAR.
“To have Jimmy, Mike and Jenson on the roster is truly incredible – three elite drivers who have competed in the most important racing series in the world.
“We are celebrating NASCAR’s 75th anniversary, so this is a special year for us. We are honored to have these world-class champions help bring a NASCAR race car to Le Mans.” France concluded.
