23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports sue NASCAR for monopolistic practices.

23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports have filed a lawsuit in the Western District of North Carolina against NASCAR and its CEO Jim France, accusing them of exerting exclusive control over the tracks and restricting competition in stock car racing. The lawsuit highlights several practices they consider harmful:

• Exclusive control of the main tracks used by NASCAR.
• Restrictions on competing in other stock car series.
• Acquisition of the ARCA series, eliminating a major competitor.
• Monopoly on parts sales, forcing teams to purchase from suppliers selected by NASCAR.

The teams claim these measures harm team owners, sponsors, drivers, and fans, and seek to create a fairer system. After more than two years of failed negotiations with NASCAR over the terms of the 2025 charter, 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports refused to sign the agreement, calling it unfair.

Team Statements

Denny Hamlin, co-owner of 23XI Racing, commented that it's essential to allow teams to grow in order to benefit fans. Bob Jenkins, from Front Row Motorsports, stated that after 20 years in NASCAR, it's time to change the rules so all teams can receive fair returns.

Michael Jordan, also co-owner of 23XI Racing, expressed his commitment to a system that allows for more balanced competition, where everyone, from drivers to sponsors, can win.

Curtis Polk, another co-owner of 23XI Racing, added that the current charter imposed on teams with little notice reinforces NASCAR's control, limiting teams' ability to influence important decisions.

Future of the Litigation

The teams will seek a preliminary injunction to allow them to continue competing under the 2025 charter terms while the lawsuit proceeds. They will also seek access to internal NASCAR documents to support their claims and demand compensation for damages suffered under the previous agreement. The teams are represented by the law firm Winston & Strawn LLP, with attorney Jeffrey Kessler leading the case.