Michael Jordan Takes The Stand In NASCAR Trial And Explains Why He Filed Suit

Retired NBA legend Michael Jordan took the witness stand on Friday in a pivotal NASCAR antitrust trial, sharing his lifelong admiration for stock car racing while expressing his urgency in suing to instigate necessary reforms in a system he believes undervalues teams and drivers risking their lives. During an hour-long testimony, Jordan’s star power elicited humor from the judge and defense attorney as he articulated why his organization, 23XI, allied with Front Row Motorsports in pursuing legal action against NASCAR. "Someone had to rise up and confront the entity," he stated. Jordan elaborated on the unfair negotiations faced by teams regarding charter extensions, highlighting economic concerns and a lack of transparency from NASCAR. He criticized NASCAR’s revenue-sharing model, comparing it unfavorably to the NBA, where the split is far more equitable. Furthermore, he emphasized the dire need for permanent charters as a safety net for teams like 23XI and Front Row, asserting their survival depends on it amidst ongoing uncertainties.