Defiant Hamlin: Lawsuit against NASCAR does not faze him

Denny Hamlin Remains Calm Amid Legal Battle with NASCAR

BROOKLYN, Mich. – Denny Hamlin, 23XI Racing owner alongside Michael Jordan, is not intimidated by the recent decision of a federal appeals panel that overturned a court order. This order required NASCAR to recognize 23XI and Front Row as teams with franchise status, within the framework of an antitrust lawsuit.

“It’s just a small part of the whole litigation,” Hamlin stated on Saturday, a day before the FireKeepers Casino 400. “I’m not deterred at all. We’re in good shape.”

Denny Hamlin

Hamlin also stated that Michael Jordan shares his optimism and confidence in the legal situation. NASCAR has not yet issued official comments on the latest resolution. The legal conflict began when 23XI and Front Row filed a lawsuit against NASCAR late last year, after refusing to sign new agreements for the renewal of their franchises. They requested a temporary injunction recognizing them as franchised teams for this season. However, the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals in Richmond, Virginia, ruled in favor of NASCAR on Thursday.

“We are considering all options at this time,” added Hamlin.

Denny Hamlin

The teams, which have yet to achieve victories this year, argued that the court order was necessary because the current franchise agreement prevents them from suing NASCAR. 23XI also alleged that it would be harmed, as Tyler Reddick’s contract would make him a free agent if the team could not guarantee him a franchise-protected car. Hamlin insisted that he is not worried about losing drivers due to the uncertainty.

“I’m not focused on that at this precise moment,” he said.

Denny Hamlin

Reddick, who was the regular season champion last year and competed for the Cup title in November, arrives at Sunday’s race in Michigan ranked sixth in the Cup standings.

The franchise system in NASCAR is similar to franchises in other sports, but the franchises are revocable by NASCAR and have expiration dates.

The six teams could have to compete as “open” cars and would have to qualify by speed each week to participate in the race, receiving a fraction of the money. Without a franchise, Hamlin estimated it would cost teams “tens of millions” to operate three cars.

“We are committed to running this season openly if necessary,” he stated. “We are going to compete and fulfill all our commitments no matter what. We are here to compete. Our team will be here for the long term and we are sure of that.”

Denny Hamlin

The antitrust case is scheduled to be heard in December. NASCAR has not revealed what it would do with the six franchises in the possession of the two organizations if they are returned to the governing body. Currently, there are 36 franchised cars for a field of 40.

“We felt the facts were on our side,” Hamlin concluded. “I think if you listen to the judges, they even mentioned that we could be in really good shape.”

Denny Hamlin