P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Johnson: Wild ride into Daytona 500 field "wasn’t in my playbook"
Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson needed to race his way into Sunday’s starting line-up due to a slow qualifying speed and driving a non-chartered third entry. In his Duel race, he found himself battling veteran J.J. Yeley in a one-on-one tug-of-war for a spot in the Daytona 500, feeling the pressure as the race neared its end. Despite doubts creeping in, a check-up ahead allowed Johnson to make a bold move up the middle and secure the 12th spot, earning a place in the race. This intense qualifying experience was a rare occurrence for Johnson, who had not faced such anxiety since his early days in the Cup Series. After a nail-biting finish, Johnson reflected on his journey to secure a spot in the Daytona 500, a testament to his determination and resilience on the track. QLabel: Jimmie Johnson’s thrilling last-lap qualification for the Daytona 500 captured the intensity of NASCAR racing.
