The race to 40: Three drivers eye career mark – Nascar

Only 17 drivers in premier series history have won 40 races — and just one, Jimmie Johnson, will be an active driver in 2017.

It’s a story that bears watching in 2017 as three drivers have 40 in their sights. It’s worth noting that of the 17 drivers, from Richard Petty (200 wins) to Mark Martin (40), everyone eligible for the NASCAR Hall of Fame has either been inducted, or in Martin’s case, will be inducted.

Jeff Gordon (93 wins) and Tony Stewart (49 wins) aren’t eligible yet, but widely are considered locks to be enshrined as well.

Here’s a look at three current drivers with 40 in their sights, as well as a full list of drivers with 40 or more wins in NASCAR’s history.