It was a new format, (4- 20 lap segments with a 10 lap shootout) but with the same results. Jimmie Johnson did indeed outshine the field at Charlotte Motor Speedway to claim his fourth Sprint All-Star win.
With the victory, Johnson broke a tie with Hendrick Motorsports teammate Jeff Gordon and the late Dale Earnhardt Sr. for most wins in this non-points race. In so doing, Johnson pocketed another cool one million dollars.
It was a fete, in that the Busch brothers (Kurt and Kyle) each won two of the first four segments. But, as we all know, it’s the driver who wins the final 10 lap shootout that goes home a million dollars richer.
After passing teammate Kasey Kahne on the final restart of lap 81 of 90, Johnson was not to be caught. His lead in the #48 Lowes Chevrolet SS continued to grow until he reached the checkered flag.
“To beat Jeff and Earnhardt, two guys I’ve looked up to my whole life — two massive icons in the sport — this means the world to me,” said Johnson from Victory Lane.
What’s more incredible is that Johnson started 18th after sliding through his pit box and drawing a penalty for a loose lug nut during Friday’s qualifying session.
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