Jimmie Johnson
Nov 20, 2016; Homestead, FL, USA; NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Jimmie Johnson (48) celebrate winning the NASCAR Sprint Cup championship after the Ford Ecoboost 400 at Homestead-Miami Speedway.Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Jimmie Johnson won his seventh NASCAR Sprint Cup title on Friday night at the Sprint Cup Series Awards in Las Vegas. It was indeed a record as he tied in seventh place with Richard Petty and Dale Earnhardt. Johnson has been known as one of the greatest NASCAR drivers of all time. At the event, he was introduced by Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympic swimmer of all time.

"When I say this, it really is no joke. My goal growing up was to win a NASCAR Winston Cup Series race or a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race," Johnson said on stage during the awards ceremony at Wynn Las Vegas. "Just one. To be here on the stage tonight with our seventh championship, I'm going to be honest, it's still sinking in. This is mind-blowing,” he added. What makes this accomplishment of his more impressive is the fact that he has been driving the same No. 48 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet.

He expressed that the award that he just received made him emotional and that it was the most spiritual experience that he ever had in his life. In his speech, he began congratulating three-time Premier Series champion Tony Stewart on a remarkable driving career. "Thanks for the fun times, Tony. So many have said it tonight in this room -- you've brought so much personality to our sport and you've done so much for auto racing in general."

Johnson also made a statement to his crew chief, Chad Knaus. He reflected on what a dynamic duo they are. He revealed that Chad is like a brother to him and that he had one of the best experiences in this tournament. He was also very thankful to his race team for being so dedicated to their work and that all of them are really very talented.

NASCAR also honoured Tony Stewart, who retired after an 18-year career. He expressed that he was really caught off guard and he was not expecting that he would also be given some recognition during the event.

Johnson looked dashing in his tuxedo. He was smiling for numerous photoshoots and it can be seen that indeed he was very happy with the outcome. "To be here on stage with our seventh championship is still sinking in. It's mind blowing," Johnson admitted.