Hey there, racing enthusiasts! Today, we celebrate the announcement of the NASCAR Hall of Fame Class of 2024, a distinguished group of individuals whose contributions to the sport have left an indelible mark on the world of NASCAR. The 14th class since the inception of the Hall of Fame in 2010, this year’s inductees are Jimmie Johnson, Chad Knaus, and Donnie Allison, along with Janet Guthrie as the recipient of the Landmark Award for Outstanding Contributions to NASCAR.
The NASCAR Hall of Fame Voting Panel members gathered for an in-person closed session at the Charlotte Convention Center to debate and vote on the 15 nominees for induction and the five nominees for the Landmark Award. The process included representatives from NASCAR, the NASCAR Hall of Fame, track owners from major facilities and historic short tracks, media members, competitors, industry leaders, a nationwide fan vote conducted through NASCAR.com, and the reigning NASCAR Cup Series champion, Joey Logano.
The Modern Era ballot featured ten nominees, with two inductees selected this year. Jimmie Johnson, the seven-time Cup Series champion, received 93% of the Modern Era ballot votes, while his longtime crew chief, Chad Knaus, garnered 81% of the votes. The other notable contenders were Harry Gant, Ricky Rudd, and Carl Edwards.
On the Pioneer ballot, Donnie Allison emerged as the inductee with 53% of the votes, showcasing his significant contributions to NASCAR’s early years. Banjo Matthews finished second in this category.
Notably, the NASCAR.com Fan Vote echoed the results of the Pioneer category, with Donnie Allison securing the fan’s support. At the same time, Jimmie Johnson and Chad Knaus claimed the most votes in the Modern Era.
The Class of 2024 Induction Ceremony is set to take place on Friday, January 19, 2024, at the NASCAR Hall of Fame and Charlotte Convention Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. This event promises to be a heartfelt celebration of these racing legends and pioneers, honoring their remarkable careers and everlasting impact on the sport we all love.
As we look forward to this momentous occasion, let’s join together in acknowledging the achievements of Jimmie Johnson, Chad Knaus, Donnie Allison, and Janet Guthrie. Their dedication, talent, and passion have enriched NASCAR’s history, and their induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame is a fitting tribute to their enduring legacies. Please mark your calendars, and stay tuned for more details on this unforgettable ceremony as we salute these exceptional individuals who have etched their names in the annals of NASCAR history.