John Hunter Nemechek Breaks Silence After Legacy Departure

John Hunter Nemechek took to social media on Wednesday following his departure from Legacy Motor Club. On Tuesday, it was reported by Jordan Bianchi of The Athletic that Nemechek would not return to the No. 42 LMC Toyota in 2027.

After a hiatus from the NASCAR Cup Series following the 2020 season to race in the Craftsman Truck Series and O'Reilly Auto Parts Series, Nemechek returned to the Cup level in 2024 to drive the No. 42 car. Nemechek racked up four top 10s in 2024 and ranked 34th in the standings.

Improvement was seen in 2025 as Nemechek notched two top fives and eight top 10s, finishing the season 25th in the standings. After 26 races in 2026, Nemechek ranks 27th in the points and has one top five and two top 10s.

John Hunter Nemechek's statement on LMC depature

Nemechek expressed gratitude for his three seasons at Legacy Motor Club. Although he was disheartened by the organization's decision to go another way, Nemechek is driven to finish the 2026 season out strong.

On top of that, Nemechek believes his future in NASCAR remains bright.

"I am incredibly grateful to Legacy Motor Club for the past three years. While I am obviously disappointed with their decision, I am as motivated as ever. It has been such an honor to represent Toyota, Legacy Motor Club and all of their sponsors. I can't wait to continue this journey, as I know my best days are ahead."

Nemechek expressed appreciation for those closest to him and will turn his focus to the final 10 races of the 2026 season.

"This is a tough sport, and l am so thankful for the love and support from Tyler Gibbs, Jack Irving, everyone at Pye Barker, my JHN Autosports team, and so many others that have kept me lifted up through good times and bad. For now, I'm going to hug my family, focus on putting together 10 great races to finish the year, and figuring out what comes next."

Josh Berry the top candidate to take over the No. 42 in 2027

In the aftermath of Nemechek's departure, the question of who will field the No. 42 LMC Toyota in 2027 remains.

As reported by Bianchi via The Athletic , the rumor is that Josh Berry is currently the lead candidate to take over the ride next year. Berry currently pilots the No. 21 Wood Brothers Racing Ford, but is being replaced by Jesse Love after the 2026 season.

The Tennessee native has been on a hot streak over the last few races as he has posted five straight top-10 finishes, two of them being top-five results. Perhaps most impressive, Berry averaged a sixth-place finish in the month of August, the highest among any Cup Series driver.