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Johnson earns record-equalling third straight Cup

(Agencies)
Updated: 2008-11-17 09:47

HOMESTEAD, Fla. - Jimmie Johnson secured a record-equalling third consecutive NASCAR Sprint Cup title after holding off a determined challenge by Carl Edwards at the Homestead-Miami Speedway on Sunday.

Jimmie Johnson celebrates winning the NASCAR Nextel Cup championship in victory lane after the Ford 400 NASCAR race at the Homestead-Miami Speedway in Homestead, Florida November 16, 2008. [Agencies]

Edwards won the race but Johnson only needed to finish 36th or better in his Chevrolet and his 15th place guaranteed him a tie with Cale Yarborough (1976-1978) for three straight Cups.

"I know we didn't win this championship, but I won the most races (nine)," said a smiling Edwards. "We didn't come here to finish second in the championship but you can't lose if you give it 100 per cent."

Johnson stayed calm on the championship podium.

"It's over," he said. "What a special year...I can't believe we're a part of history."

It was the eighth Cup title for his Hendrick Motorsports team and he was presented with a cheque for seven million dollars by NASCAR CEO Brian France.

Starting back in 30th position, Johnson's main concern was passing backmarkers.

"We had a great race car and we knew we could pass a lot of people once we got in some clear air we could run in front," he said.

"From the first lap I knew I felt in control where the car was on the track. It was a great day. It's the ultimate reward, it's due to team dedication."