Live Report: NASCAR Faces Antitrust Battle with Michael Jordan-Owned 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The legal showdown between NASCAR and two of its Cup Series teams, Michael Jordan-owned 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports, continues to escalate. A federal judge has scheduled a hearing for Jan. 8, 2025, to address NASCAR’s motion to dismiss the antitrust lawsuit filed by the teams.
Preliminary Injunction Secured
In a significant development, the two teams were granted a preliminary injunction on Wednesday, allowing them to compete as chartered teams in the 2025 season. U.S. District Court Judge Kenneth D. Bell, who presides over the case, emphasized the importance of fair competition in the sport, stating, “NASCAR fans (and members of the public who may become fans) have an interest in watching all the teams compete with their best drivers and most competitive teams.”
While NASCAR plans to appeal the ruling and seeks to partially block the injunction pending the appeal, the decision ensures 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports can continue to operate under the charter system during the ongoing legal process.
The Core of the Dispute
The dispute traces back to September 2024, when 23XI Racing, co-owned by Michael Jordan and three-time Daytona 500 winner Denny Hamlin, and Front Row Motorsports rejected NASCAR’s “take-it-or-leave-it” charter renewal offers. A charter, akin to a franchise, guarantees prize money, a secured spot in the field, and other team protections.
The teams argue that NASCAR’s charter policies are monopolistic and filed suit claiming NASCAR acts as “monopolistic bullies.” They initially lost a bid in November 2024 to be recognized as chartered teams while the lawsuit progressed but have since gained ground with the preliminary injunction.
Upcoming Legal Steps
Judge Bell has outlined key dates for the case, setting Sept. 19, 2025, as the deadline for discovery and scheduling the trial for Dec. 1, 2025, after the conclusion of the next racing season. The Jan. 8 hearing will also address other motions in the case.
Charter Transfers and Future Implications
The injunction allows both teams to sign the charter agreements while continuing their legal battle. Additionally, the teams have received approval to purchase additional charters from Stewart-Haas Racing, which plans to reduce its Cup Series presence from four cars to one. However, NASCAR retains the authority to approve these transfers.
As this high-stakes legal battle unfolds, the implications for NASCAR’s governance and the future of its teams will be closely watched. Stay tuned as this story develops further.
