Rick Hendrick reacts to Jimmie Johnson, Chad Knaus NASCAR Hall of Fame induction

Rick Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports, said it was “fitting” that Jimmie Johnson and Chad Knaus were inducted together into the NASCAR Hall of Fame Class of 2024 Wednesday.

Rick Hendrick statement on the selection of Jimmie Johnson and Chad Knaus to the NASCAR Hall of Fame: pic.twitter.com/svcvW0svOA

— Kelly Crandall (@KellyCrandall) August 2, 2023

“I cannot imagine a more fitting moment than Jimmie and Chad being inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in the same class,” Hendrick said. “As individuals, they’re truly unique, with different personalities, strengths and approaches to their craft. Each is a champion and generational talent in their own right. But together, they were pure magic. All of us at Hendrick Motorsports were fortunate to see greatness up close as they re-wrote the record book.

“On behalf of our entire organization, congratulations to two of the fiercest competitors. And best people – our sport has ever seen. We look forward to celebrating their unprecedented achievements.”

Johnson, 47, enjoyed one of the most successful careers in the history of the Cup Series. He is joined only by Dale Earnhardt and Richard Petty for the most championships all-time. Johnson won all of his championships with Knaus as his crew chief at Hendrick Motorsports, and notably compiled five in a row from 2006-2010.

In addition, he tallied multiple wins in each of the Cup Series’ crown-jewel events — the Daytona 500 (2006, 2013), the Coca-Cola 600 (2003-05, 2014), the Southern 500 (2004, 2012) and the Brickyard 400 (2006, 2008-09, 2012), per NASCAR.com. Johnson’s 83 wins rank sixth-most in NASCAR history behind Petty (200), David Pearson (105), Jeff Gordon (93), Darrell Waltrip and Bobby Allison (both 84).

Jimmie Johnson shares message after Hall of Fame selection

Johnson called his induction an “incredible honor.”

“It is an incredible honor to be voted into the @NASCARHall with the Class of 2024,” Johnson said. “What makes this moment even more special is being inducted with @chadknaus. We re-wrote the record books together, so it’s only fitting we are inducted together. Congratulations also to Donnie Allison for joining the Hall of Fame and Janet Guthrie on the Landmark Award.

“Joining the elite company of so many who have contributed to our sport is truly overwhelming… I am forever grateful.”

Johnson received 93% of Modern Era Ballot votes, surprisingly falling short of unanimous selection. Knaus earned 81% of the vote while Donnie Allison, also inducted into the Hall of Fame, drew 53% of the vote on the Pioneer Ballot.

The NASCAR Hall of Fame Class of 2024 induction ceremony will take place on Jan. 19 in Charlotte.