Michael Jordan, the legendary Chicago Bulls player and current co-owner of 23XI Racing, is gearing up for a significant legal battle against NASCAR, with a trial date officially set for December 1, 2025. This legal confrontation stems from allegations that NASCAR has engaged in monopolistic practices, raising questions about the governance of stock car racing in the United States.
The lawsuit, initiated in October 2024 by 23XI Racing in collaboration with Front Row Motorsports (FRM), accuses NASCAR of stifling competition through various means. Central to the dispute are claims regarding NASCAR’s control over key racetracks, exclusive agreements that limit competition, and the costly “charter system” that has become a barrier for many teams. The charter system, which guarantees race entries for teams at a staggering cost of approximately $30 million per charter, has been criticized for favoring a select few while excluding others.
Jordan, known for his fierce competitive spirit, stated in 2024, “Everyone knows that I have always been a fierce competitor. That will to win drives me and the entire 23XI team each and every week out on the track.” He expressed his commitment to advocating for a fair and competitive racing environment, emphasizing that the current structure is detrimental to teams, drivers, sponsors, and fans alike.
The recent developments in the case saw a North Carolina judge reject NASCAR’s attempts to impose sanctions on 23XI and FRM. NASCAR had accused the teams and their attorneys of submitting “manufactured evidence” and making false statements in previous declarations. However, the court’s decision not to impose sanctions represents a setback for NASCAR, undermining their efforts to discredit the plaintiffs ahead of the trial.
Jeffrey Kessler, the attorney representing 23XI and FRM, dismissed NASCAR’s allegations as unfounded, asserting that they were merely distractions intended to divert attention from the substantial evidence of NASCAR’s alleged monopolistic practices. Kessler stated, “The sanction request is another baseless distraction intended to try to divert the Court’s attention from the overwhelming evidence that demonstrates that Jim France and NASCAR have been operating an unlawful monopoly that has hurt not just my clients, but all of stock car racing.”
As the legal proceedings unfold, Jordan’s 23XI Racing team remains active in the competitive landscape of NASCAR, fielding drivers Tyler Reddick, Bubba Wallace, Riley Herbst, and Burt Myers for the 2025 Cup Series season. Meanwhile, FRM continues to race with Zane Smith, Todd Gilliland, and Noah Gragson, maintaining their presence in the sport.
This legal battle not only highlights the complexities of NASCAR’s governance but also underscores Michael Jordan’s relentless pursuit of fairness and competition, a trait that has defined his career both on and off the basketball court. With the trial set for late 2025, the outcome could have significant implications for the future of stock car racing in America. As fans and analysts alike await the developments, one thing remains clear: Michael Jordan is prepared to fight for what he believes is right in the world of racing.