Coca-Cola 600 Preview: Milestones Highlight Race Weekend
The 66th running of the Coca-Cola 600 is set to unfold with 40 drivers, prominently featuring several significant milestones in the NASCAR Cup Series.
Jimmie Johnson will mark his 700th career start at the iconic Charlotte Motor Speedway. The seven-time Cup champion, who co-owns the No. 84 Toyota for Legacy Motor Club, made his debut in 2001 and is only the 21st driver to reach this milestone. Johnson, a four-time Coca-Cola 600 winner, is currently running a partial season, with Kyle Busch being the only active driver surpassing this mark at 726 starts.
Johnson responded to rumors about this potentially being his final NASCAR appearance, stating, "It’s been a long road. I wouldn’t change a mile."
In addition to Johnson, Denny Hamlin is poised to become the 22nd driver to reach 700 starts next weekend, as he prepares for his 699th start in this race.
Daniel Suarez, the only foreign-born driver to win a national-level NASCAR championship, will also hit a milestone with his 300th start. The Trackhouse Racing driver, who has two career Cup wins, is still seeking his first this season, having finished second at Las Vegas.
Ryan Preece, navigating his 200th career start in the No. 60 Ford for RFK Racing, is experiencing his strongest season yet and aims for his first Cup victory.
Lastly, Ty Gibbs, grandson of Joe Gibbs, will compete in his 100th Cup race driving the No. 54 Toyota. Despite not yet securing a victory, Gibbs is the 2022 NASCAR Xfinity Series champion and has a second-place finish at Darlington to his name.
As the Coca-Cola 600 approaches, these milestones not only add excitement to the event but also highlight the rich history and competitive spirit of the NASCAR Cup Series.
