Lowe’s to end sponsorship of 7-time NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson

Jimmie Johnson and Lowe’s, one of the most synonymous driver-sponsor pairings in NASCAR history, will end at the conclusion of the 2018 Cup Series season, Hendrick Motorsports announced Wednesday.

Lowe’s began sponsoring Johnson on a full-time basis in 2002, Johnson’s rookie season in NASCAR’s top division. During their time together, Johnson won a record-tying seven Cup Series championships and 83 races. The combination of driver and sponsor was one of the most successful all-time, in the same category as Richard Petty and STP, Jeff Gordon and DuPont, and Dale Earnhardt and GM Goodwrench.

“We are so appreciative of everyone at Lowe’s,” team owner Rick Hendrick said in a statement. “They have been amazing partners. With seven championships, this program has delivered far beyond what anyone could have imagined. It goes without saying that we will fully support Lowe’s and our program together in 2018 as we pursue another championship. The success of the relationship has been unbelievable.”

Lowe’s will cease its involvement in NASCAR completely, leaving Hendrick to find Johnson a replacement primary sponsor for 2019 and beyond. The home improvement store chain signed a two-year contract extension in 2015 that carried through the current season. Johnson, 42, is the second-oldest full-time driver in the Cup Series and signed to drive the No. 48 Hendrick Chevrolet through 2020.

Lowe’s first began sponsoring a NASCAR team in 1995 with team owner Junior Johnson and driver Brett Bodine. In 1997, the company shifted its support to Richard Childress Racing and driver Mike Skinner where it would remain until joining with Hendrick at the end of the 2001 season.

“Rick Hendrick and his organization have been exceptional partners, and we could not have asked for more from Jimmie — a consummate champion and an incredible representative for our brand and his sport,” said Michael P. McDermott, Lowe’s chief customer officer. “The No. 48 team is a valuable property and has been an integral part of building the Lowe’s brand, which makes today’s decision difficult as we now look to invest in other strategic initiatives. Although we are evolving our strategy, there’s no question that being a part of seven championships and many history-making moments has been valuable for Lowe’s.”