Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing Rejects NASCAR’s ‘Predatory’ Charter Deal, Refuses to Back Down Amid Dispute

On September 7, 23XI Racing, the NASCAR Cup Series team co-owned by NBA legend Michael Jordan and NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin, made waves by refusing to sign a new charter agreement with NASCAR. This move comes less than a week after one of its drivers, Tyler Reddick, won the regular season championship, marking a high point for the relatively young team. CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – MARCH 03: Charlotte Hornets owner Michael Jordan looks on during their game against the Orlando Magic at Spectrum Center on March 03, 2023 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images) History of 23XI Racing Founded in 2020, 23XI Racing was born out of Jordan’s passion for motorsports and his desire to increase diversity in the sport. Partnering with Hamlin, who drives for Joe Gibbs Racing, the team took its name from Jordan’s iconic No. 23 from his NBA career and Hamlin’s long-time No. 11 in NASCAR. Another key figure in the team is Curtis Polk, Jordan’s long-time business adviser. The team debuted in the 2021 season, fielding the No. 23 Toyota Camry for Bubba Wallace, NASCAR’s only full-time Black driver in the Cup Series. The team expanded in 2022, adding a second car,...