23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports secured a preliminary injunction in their lawsuit against NASCAR. U.S. District Judge Bell’s ruling permits both teams to compete as chartered teams in the 2025 NASCAR season and to acquire additional charters from Stewart-Haas Racing.
This decision, which surprised many, is a small victory for these teams as they challenge NASCAR’s operational practices.
The lawsuit, filed by 23XI Racing, co-owned by NBA legend Michael Jordan and NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin, along with Front Row Motorsports, owned by Bob Jenkins, represents a significant antitrust action within the sport. The teams allege that NASCAR engages in anti-competitive practices that stifle growth and compromise fairness, negatively impacting teams, drivers, sponsors, and fans alike.
Central to their complaints is the 2025 Charter Agreement, which the plaintiffs claim consolidates power within the France family, the owners of NASCAR. They raise concerns including permanent charters, revenue sharing, and a need for a fair governance structure.
NASCAR fans shop the Bubba Wallace 23XI Racing merchandise hauler outside the Darlington Raceway prior to the NASCAR Cup Series Goodyear 400 on May 09, 2021 in Darlington, South Carolina. 23XI Racing and FRM lawyer… NASCAR fans shop the Bubba Wallace 23XI Racing merchandise hauler outside the Darlington Raceway prior to the NASCAR Cup Series Goodyear 400 on May 09, 2021 in Darlington, South Carolina. 23XI Racing and FRM lawyer releases strong statement after NASCAR lawsuit progress. More Chris Graythen/Getty Images
Jeffrey Kessler, the attorney representing both racing teams, has explained in a statement: