23XI Racing And Front Row Motorsports File Lawsuit Against NASCAR Owners

23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports have filed an antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR.

This lawsuit, filed in the Western District of North Carolina, accuses NASCAR of engaging in anti-competitive practices that allegedly stifle fair competition within the sport. The allegations center on NASCAR’s control over racetracks, exclusive deal mandates, and restrictive participation rules for teams.

The lawsuit revolves around NASCAR’s charter agreements. Originally adopted in 2016 and recently updated for 2025, these agreements have been a source of contention. Both 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports have refused to sign the new agreements, citing unfair terms. Despite prolonged negotiations, NASCAR’s unwillingness to engage constructively has led to the current legal action.

In their joint statement, 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports stated:

“We share a passion for racing, the thrill of competition, and winning. Off the racetrack, we share a belief that change is necessary for the sport we love. Together, we brought this antitrust case so that racing can thrive and become a more competitive and fair sport in ways that will benefit teams, drivers, sponsors, and, most importantly, fans.”

The lawsuit also seeks several remedies from the court, including a preliminary injunction that would allow the teams to race under the 2025 charters during the ongoing litigation. Furthermore, they are demanding damages for losses incurred under the 2016 charter agreement and discovery orders for disclosing information on NASCAR’s alleged exclusionary practices.

Denny Hamlin, a co-owner of 23XI Racing, commented:

“It’s actually pretty simple in my opinion. When I look around, I see that the best and most competitive sports in the world understand that when teams thrive, fans benefit, and that everyone who invests in making the sport a success should share fairly in that success. With the right changes, we can certainly make that a reality in racing.”

Front Row Motorsports team owner Bob Jenkins argued for the need for a fairer system.

“I have been part of this racing community for 20 years and couldn’t be more proud of the Front Row Motorsports team and our success. But the time has come for change. We need a more competitive and fair system where teams, drivers, and sponsors can be rewarded for our collective investment by building long-term enterprise value, just like every other successful professional sports league.”

Michael Jordan, co-owner of 23XI Racing, also commented on the lawsuit:

“Everyone knows that I have always been a fierce competitor, and that will to win is what drives me and the entire 23XI team each and every week out on the track. I love the sport of racing and the passion of our fans, but the way NASCAR is running today is unfair to teams, drivers, sponsors, and fans. Today’s action shows I’m willing to fight for a competitive market where everyone wins.”

Curtis Polk, another co-owner of 23XI Racing, criticized the new charter imposed by NASCAR.

“A true partnership, not dictatorship, is our goal. For over two years, I have dedicated myself to championing a more fair and transparent system within NASCAR, where we recognize the importance of the France family and the sanctioning body, but do what is best for all stakeholders. The charter that was forced on the teams with only hours’ notice does not accomplish these objectives. The new charter is an attempt to further marginalize the teams’ voices in the sport and consolidate control and the power in the hands of. the France family for their sole benefit. I hope our actions today lead to a future of collaboration for this great sport we love.”