“The hardest part about playing chicken is knowing when to flinch.” With that quote from actor Scott Glenn in “The Hunt for Red October” comes the next question: who blinked, NASCAR or the teams of 23XI and Front Row Motorsports?
From indications, it appears NASCAR was the one to give in to settle the antitrust lawsuit filed against it by two of its race teams, which also included one of the teams co-owned by NBA great Michael Jordan.
The proceedings were at times contentious between the two parties during the nine-day trial, even to the point of becoming personal.
ICYMI
- Day 1 of NASCAR vs. 23XI/Front Row Motorsports trial: Jordan looms large
- NASCAR antitrust trial: Denny Hamlin grilled on financials in contentious Day 2
- Michael Jordan was star witness on Day 5 of the NASCAR antitrust trial
- Pace of NASCAR antitrust trial wearing thin for Judge Kenneth Bell
“I’m pleased to say the parties have positively settled this matter in a way that will benefit the industry going forward,” Jeffrey Kessler, attorney for the teams, said in a brief statement.
The agreement is a “mutually agreed-upon resolution that delivers long-term stability and creates the conditions for meaningful growth for all teams in a more competitive environment,” according to the statement issued by both parties on Thursday morning.
“This resolution reflects our shared commitment to maintaining a fair and equitable framework for long-term participation in America’s premier motorsport, one that supports teams, partners, and stakeholders while ensuring fans enjoy uninterrupted access to the best racing in the world. The agreement allows all parties to move forward with a unified focus on advancing stock car racing and delivering exceptional competition for our fans.”
One thing not announced is the financial terms of the agreement. According to the joint statement: “The financial terms of the settlement are confidential and will not be released.”
Both parties though are in agreement and smiling to one degree or another.
So, what are the details?
As we said before, financial terms will not be released, but with the matter resolved, “all parties look forward to working together, alongside all chartered race teams, to deliver world-class events, dynamic sponsorship and partner activation opportunities, and continued growth for generations to come.
“As a condition of the settlement agreement, NASCAR will issue an amendment to existing charter holders detailing the updated terms for signature, which will include a form of ‘evergreen’ charters, subject to mutual agreement.”
Furthermore, the agreement is a mutually agreed-upon resolution that “delivers long-term stability and creates the conditions for meaningful growth for all teams in a more competitive environment.”
The agreement also states that it is both parties “shared commitment to maintaining a fair and equitable framework for long-term participation in America’s premier motorsport, one that supports teams, partners, and stakeholders while ensuring fans enjoy uninterrupted access to the best racing in the world.”
So, with all hands joined together in unity and singing “Kumbaya, My Lord” with the holiday season upon us, it appears at least from the outside both parties got what they wanted from the deal.
It’s pretty clear that all parties have always agreed on is a “deep love for the sport and a desire to see it fulfill its full potential”.
Both parties extended thanks to Judge Kenneth Bell and mediator Jeffrey Mishkin for their professionalism, and guidance throughout this process and to their jury for their time.
Now that the pleasantries are over, what did the individuals say?
Michael Jordan, co-owner, 23XI Racing
From the beginning, this lawsuit was about progress. It was about making sure our sport evolves in a way that supports everyone: teams, drivers, partners, employees, and fans. With a foundation to build equity and invest in the future and a stronger voice in the decisions ahead, we now have the chance to grow together and make the sport even better for generations to come. I’m excited to watch our teams get back on the track and compete hard in 2026.
Denny Hamlin, co-owner, 23XI Racing
I’ve cared deeply about the sport of NASCAR my entire life. Racing is all I’ve ever known, and this sport shaped who I am. That’s why we were willing to shoulder the challenges that came with taking this stand. We believed it was worth fighting for a stronger and more sustainable future for everyone in the industry. Teams, drivers, and partners will now have the stability and opportunity they deserve. Our commitment to the fans and to the entire NASCAR community has never been stronger. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished, and now it is time to move forward together and build the stronger future this sport deserves.
Bob Jenkins, owner, Front Row Motorsports
After more than 20 years in this sport, today gives me real confidence in where we’re headed. I love this sport, and it was clear we needed a system that treated our teams, drivers, and sponsors fairly and kept the competition strong. With this change, we can finally build long-term value and have a real voice in NASCAR’s future. I’m excited for the road ahead—for the people in the garage, the folks in the stands, and everyone who loves this sport.
Curtis Polk, co-owner, 23XI Racing
My goal as a member of the Team Negotiating Committee was to help create an economic model that would create a more sustainable model for teams and create a more equitable and transparent system within NASCAR. This settlement achieves significant progress toward the Four Pillars. The result brings NASCAR and the chartered teams into better alignment and supports future growth and sustainability for all stakeholders and a better sport for the fans.
Jim France, CEO & chairman, NASCAR
This outcome gives all parties the flexibility and confidence to continue delivering unforgettable racing moments for our fans, which has always been our highest priority since the sport was founded in 1948. We worked closely with race teams and tracks to create the NASCAR charter system in 2016, and it has proven invaluable to their operations and to the quality of racing across the Cup Series. Today’s agreement reaffirms our commitment to preserving and enhancing that value, ensuring our fans continue to enjoy the very best of stock car racing for generations to come. We are excited to return the collective focus of our sport, teams and racetracks toward an incredible 78th season that begins with the Daytona 500 on Sunday, Feb. 15, 2026.
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