Michael Jordan’s racing team, 23XI Racing, is taking legal action against NASCAR and its CEO, Jim France, accusing the organization of monopolistic behavior. Jordan’s team, along with Front Row Motorsports, filed a federal lawsuit in North Carolina, alleging that NASCAR is using unfair tactics to strong-arm racing teams into unfavorable agreements.
The dispute centers around the renewal of charter agreements, which are set to expire in 2024. According to the lawsuit, the two teams demanded better revenue-sharing terms from NASCAR, but France and his organization refused to negotiate.
Instead, the teams claim they were handed a “take-it-or-leave-it” deal that threatened their future participation if they didn’t comply.
Rather than accept the terms, 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports opted to take the matter to court. They hope a judge will grant an injunction, allowing them to compete in the 2025 season without losing their legal standing in the antitrust battle against NASCAR.
The lawsuit highlights a desire to challenge what the teams describe as NASCAR’s “unlawful monopoly power.” In a statement about the lawsuit, Jordan expressed his frustrations, saying, “I love the sport of racing and the passion of our fans, but NASCAR’s current system is unfair to teams, drivers, sponsors, and fans. I’m fighting for a competitive market where everyone wins.”
Denny Hamlin, co-owner of 23XI Racing and a prominent NASCAR driver, echoed Jordan’s sentiments. “When teams thrive, fans benefit. The most successful sports recognize this, and it’s time NASCAR does too. With the right changes, we can create a better future for the sport.”
Jordan and Hamlin founded 23XI Racing in 2020, with notable drivers like Bubba Wallace and Tyler Reddick representing the team.
As of now, NASCAR and Jim France have yet to issue a response to the lawsuit.
