The NASCAR antitrust lawsuit involving 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports intensified in a Charlotte federal courtroom today, pulling attention from across the racing community. The case, which centers on NASCAR’s charter system, took on added weight with the presence of 23XI co-owner Michael Jordan. His appearance underscored the seriousness of the dispute, as the team faces the possibility of shuttering operations by 2026 if a resolution is not reached, according to a statement.
At issue are charters—valuable assets that guarantee teams entry into races and provide millions in annual payouts. The plaintiffs are seeking a preliminary injunction to safeguard these charters during the ongoing litigation. Denny Hamlin, Jordan’s partner in 23XI, has consistently criticized NASCAR’s financial model, calling for more transparency in the way teams’ long-term viability is determined, per statement.
Related: NASCAR Blames Teams, Not Antitrust Issues, in Charter Fight
The courtroom proceedings revealed candid communications between Jordan and Hamlin that captured the depth of frustration among team owners. As part of the hearing before Judge Kenneth Bell, private text messages were displayed, showing Jordan referring to non-signing teams with disparaging language and criticizing Joe Gibbs Racing for its decision to sign the charter agreement. Hamlin’s messages further highlighted the rift, with one text revealing that his “despise of the France family runs deep.”
These revelations added fuel to a case that has already exposed major tensions between NASCAR leadership and its teams.
Source: Esscentially Sports
