Jimmie Johnson returned to his winning ways at Charlotte Motor Speedway Sunday, taking first in the Bank of America 500.
The win is important for Johnson and Hendrick Motorsports for several reasons. It was Johnson's 78th career victory. More importantly, it clinches him a spot in the next round of the Chase — the first time the six-time Sprint Cup champion has advanced past the Round of 12 under the new postseason format.
It also snaps a 24-race winless streak. It's Johnson's third win of the season, but first since March at Auto Club Speedway.
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But while Johnson and his No.