Overview
- TNT announced on June 17, 2026 that seven-time Cup champion Jimmie Johnson will join its studio team and make his on-air debut on June 28 at Sonoma Raceway.
- Johnson will appear in studio for North Wilkesboro on July 19 and the Indianapolis championship on July 26, while former driver Jeff Burton will serve as studio analyst for the two races Johnson will miss.
- ESPN’s Marty Smith will serve as TNT’s pre- and post-race host for the full five-race single-elimination In‑Season Challenge, anchoring coverage alongside Dale Earnhardt Jr., Steve Letarte, and Jamie McMurray.
- Johnson remains an occasional racer and co-owner of Legacy Motor Club, a dual role that pairs on-track activity with a growing media presence pioneered by retired champions moving into broadcasting and team ownership.
- TNT’s moves build on its return to NASCAR rights last year and aim to expand the studio show and viewer access for the In‑Season Challenge across TNT’s linear broadcasts and HBO Max streaming.