The Legal Battle Between NASCAR and the Teams Intensifies
The legal dispute between NASCAR and two of its teams, who filed an antitrust lawsuit, has escalated to a new level. During a tense hearing, emails and text messages with explicit language were revealed, coming from key figures such as Michael Jordan, co-owner of the 23XI Racing team.23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports were the only teams that refused to sign the new NASCAR agreements, which led to the lawsuit. The teams argue that NASCAR is acting as a monopoly and that they could go bankrupt if their licenses are sold. The France family, owners of NASCAR, was also involved in the controversy. Messages were revealed in which strong opinions about the situation were expressed, including comments about the possibility of teams obtaining better terms. In a conversation with his business manager, Jordan stated that he would not sell the licenses and that this “is just a hobby”. The controversy extends to NASCAR itself. Internal emails were revealed where executives expressed their frustration with the negotiations and the initial proposal of agreements. Strong words were used to describe the situation. The teams’ lawyer, Jeffrey Kessler, argued that these exchanges demonstrate that NASCAR is monopolizing the auto racing market. NASCAR insists that the teams waived their rights by not signing the extensions. Currently, the teams compete as “open”, which affects their participation in the races and their income. Judge Kenneth Bell warned that NASCAR’s licensing system is at stake. The hearing focused on the teams’ request to regain their license status before the trial scheduled for December. The judge will decide next week on the request, after the first playoff race of the season. Tyler Reddick and Bubba Wallace, both from 23XI, are in the playoffs, as is Denny Hamlin, who races for JGR. Outside of court, Jordan stated that he is open to a settlement, but willing to go to trial. Kessler warned that the lack of licenses could lead 23XI and Front Row to bankruptcy in 2026.“Teams will regret not joining us,” Jordan wrote in a text message.
Michael Jordan
“I’ve always said I want to fight for the good of the sport,” Jordan affirmed. “If I have to fight until the end, for the good of the sport, I will.”
Michael Jordan
