Denny Hamlin’s Emotional Testimony Sets Tone in NASCAR Antitrust Fight

Denny Hamlin, co-owner of 23XI Racing alongside Jordan, was the first to testify. He approached the witness stand early in the opening session and soon grew visibly emotional, per a statement describing the proceedings. Hamlin spoke about the sacrifices he made to pursue a racing career, recalling how those decisions strained his family. He paused when discussing his early racing years and explained that his father is dying, noting that the subject brings back difficult memories.

Hamlin’s testimony highlighted the personal stakes for those taking part in the sport’s business structure. He shared that he once had to decide between continuing his competitive career and working in his father’s trailer business, illustrating how much his family invested in his rise through the racing ranks. The emotional moment underscored the significance of the trial and the burdens carried by those testifying.

The session later shifted to Hamlin’s business partnership with Jordan. He told the court that he sought out the former NBA star as a co-owner because he needed a well-resourced partner to build a competitive team. According to a statement referenced in court, Hamlin said that Jordan’s understanding of the sport and financial support helped make 23XI Racing successful enough to purchase multiple team charters. Although buying a third charter brought financial uncertainty, he argued that the risk was crucial to continue expanding.

The lawsuit was brought forward by 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports after both organizations rejected NASCAR’s 2024 charter renewal deal. Their claim argues that NASCAR runs a monopoly—controlling the racetracks, the rules and the financial structure in a way that allegedly benefits the France family, who founded and still oversees the sport. Their legal team contends that most teams lost money in 2024, pointing to a system they say is tilted against those trying to compete.

Related: NASCAR Antitrust Trial Opens in Federal Court with Michael Jordan in the Gallery

Court documents referenced in the case claim that NASCAR paid nearly $400 million to the France Family Trust in recent years and that a financial analysis valued the organization at $5 billion. Hamlin also provided insight into the financial strain of running a team, explaining that fielding just one car requires roughly $20 million per season while the guaranteed payments teams receive fall significantly short of covering those costs. He noted, according to a statement entered into the record, that several chartered teams have already failed.

The stakes of the trial extend far beyond the two plaintiff organizations. Judge Kenneth Bell holds authority to force sweeping structural changes if NASCAR is found liable. Possible outcomes include compelling the sale of NASCAR, removing or reforming the charter system, altering team-owner revenue sharing or imposing steep financial penalties. Such decisions could transform the future of the sport.

NASCAR has countered that it has increased payouts and created valuable equity for race teams through the charter model. Its legal representatives defended the France family’s role in building the sport into a global brand. If the governing body prevails, 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports could face an uncertain future beyond 2026, as NASCAR maintains control over their charters.

Jordan’s presence in the courtroom has already had an impact—one juror was dismissed after admitting admiration for him. The heightened public attention underscores how deeply this case resonates across the sports landscape. As Hamlin posted publicly days before proceedings began, change is coming and clarity will arrive in the courtroom.

Source: IB Times