NASCAR champ Jimmie Johnson tests positive for COVID-19, will miss upcoming race, Hendrick Motorsports says

Seven-time NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson has tested positive for COVID-19, Hendrick Motorsports said Friday evening.He was set to race Sunday at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, but he'll miss the event, the team said."My first priority is the health and safety of my loved ones and my teammates," Johnson said. "I’ve never missed a race in my Cup career, but I know it’s going to be very hard to watch from the sidelines when I’m supposed to be out there competing."He was tested after learning that his wife, who developed allergy-like symptoms, tested positive, the team said.Video: Fans will be allowed at August NASCAR raceRick Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports, said, in part: "We’re relieved he isn’t showing symptoms and that Chani is doing great."NASCAR said in a statement that it has outline the steps for Johnson's return. Those steps are in line with current guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which include Johnson is symptom-free and has two negative COVID-19 test results. A physician will also have to clear him.“Jimmie is a true battle-tested champion, and we wish him well in his recovery. NASCAR has granted Jimmie a playoff waiver, and we look forward to his return as he races for an eighth NASCAR Cup Series championship,” NASCAR said.

Seven-time NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson has tested positive for COVID-19, Hendrick Motorsports said Friday evening.

He was set to race Sunday at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, but he'll miss the event, the team said.

"My first priority is the health and safety of my loved ones and my teammates," Johnson said. "I’ve never missed a race in my Cup career, but I know it’s going to be very hard to watch from the sidelines when I’m supposed to be out there competing."

He was tested after learning that his wife, who developed allergy-like symptoms, tested positive, the .

Video: Fans will be allowed at August NASCAR race

Rick Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports, said, in part: "We’re relieved he isn’t showing symptoms and that Chani is doing great."

NASCAR said in a statement that it has outline the steps for Johnson's return. Those steps are in line with current guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which include Johnson is symptom-free and has two negative COVID-19 test results.

A physician will also have to clear him.

“Jimmie is a true battle-tested champion, and we wish him well in his recovery. NASCAR has granted Jimmie a playoff waiver, and we look forward to his return as he races for an eighth NASCAR Cup Series championship,” NASCAR said.

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