Johnson "Hopeful" Lowe's Could Be Associate Sponsor In '19

NASCAR driver Jimmie Johnson today addressed reports that Lowe's, his outgoing primary sponsor at Hendrick Motorsports, "could return in a limited role next year." Johnson: "I still have not been personally involved in any discussions on that." However, he "hopes it might happen with a new executive team." Johnson added, "I've heard the rumors, I can only hope there's truth in them" (TWITTER.com, 9/20).

Johnson also was asked about the sport's leadership being in flux, including Steve Phelps' recent promotion to NASCAR President. He responded, "I haven't had it change my perspective. We've been in flux, and I don't think it's added any more to it. It hasn't added any more to it, and I think Steve's going to be a great leader" (NBCSPORTS.com, 9/20).