Johnson re-ups with Racing Champions

Reflecting the popularity of Jimmie Johnson die-cast replicas, apparel and hobby products, RC2, parent company of the Racing Champions brand, has extended its licensing agreement with JG Motorsports, Inc. for Jimmie Johnson and the Hendrick Motorsports No. 48/ Lowe's race team.

"RC2 was the first company to step up and make a commitment to a significant licensing program when I started my NASCAR Winston Cup Series career a couple of years ago," said Johnson, runner-up to Matt Kenseth in the chase for the 2003 NASCAR Winston Cup championship. "They have been a solid partner and I am excited that we have been able to extend and expand our relationship. I look forward to working with RC2 and pursuing innovative programs to deliver to our fans."

RC2 will retain its exclusive distribution rights for die-cast replicas sold at mass retail, and also for No. 48 team products -- including apparel, novelties, plastic model kits and trading cards -- sold at NASCAR events.

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"Since Jimmie Johnson broke into the NASCAR Winston Cup Series two years ago, we have seen his popularity among the more than 75 million NASCAR fans grow each year," said Pete Henseler, President of RC2. "We're delighted that we've been able to extend our licensing agreement to include both product distribution rights as well as personal appearances by Jimmie on behalf of RC2. He's one of NASCAR's young stars, and we're proud to be working with him and the entire Lowe's-Hendrick-JG team."

Johnson's agreement with RC2 further insures collectors of his die-cast replicas one of the most expansive selections in the market. Several other die-cast manufacturers are also licensed to produce replicas of the No. 48 Lowe's Chevrolet, including: Action Performance, Team Caliber, and Mattel.