"We're really stoked to have Jimmie back," said Gurney, who led several race laps in this year's Rolex 24, along with Fogarty and Johnson. "Since the last Rolex 24 he's grabbed another NASCAR championship against an incredible field. The difficulty of winning in NASCAR has become even more apparent since several drivers from other series have gone over there. To know the guy who's won it and to have him drive with us is really special."

Fogarty agrees with his friend and 2007 co-champion teammate and is very happy to have Johnson back.

"It's awesome to have him onboard again," Fogarty said. "Independent of his NASCAR success, he's just a great guy. We have him in the car because he's capable of driving this car, not because he is capable of driving a Cup car. The media attention is always a little gnarly to deal with, but maybe they'll back off a little this year since this was his third championship, and not his second. But I expect it to be a madhouse at Daytona as always, and that is all part of what makes this our biggest event."

Johnson will likely test with GAINSCO on the final day of the annual Rolex 24 Test Days, January 3–5, in preparation for the Rolex 24.

"When we left Daytona last year, Bob asked if I'd like to do it again," Johnson said. "I said, 'If you guys have a spot, count me in.' So, I am excited, happy and honoured to be back for a second run with the team."