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

By  |  December 1, 2025

NASCAR’s closely watched federal antitrust trial opened Monday with a full jury seated and Michael Jordan — co-owner of 23XI Racing — making a notable appearance in the courtroom gallery, according to AP News. The case stems from allegations that the motorsports organization uses its dominant position to pressure teams into accepting rules and financial arrangements they argue are unfair.

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    Jordan’s team, 23XI Racing, along with Front Row Motorsports, filed suit last year after refusing to sign new charter extension agreements. These charters function similarly to franchises, guaranteeing race entries and a share of prize revenue. Per AP News, the teams contend that NASCAR’s structure leaves them no realistic choice but to comply with a system they believe is monopolistic.

    The trial, expected to span two weeks, is being overseen by U.S. District Judge Kenneth Bell. Six men and three women were selected for the jury. AP News reports that Judge Bell ordered 23XI co-owner and driver Denny Hamlin, along with Jordan’s longtime business partner Curtis Polk, to be sequestered following opening statements before they are called to testify.

    Jordan’s presence sparked attention during jury selection. At least two prospective jurors were dismissed because they admitted admiration for the NBA legend — one saying, “I like Mike” — and another noting that he once decorated his walls with posters of Jordan. A seated juror joked about the current state of the football team at Jordan’s alma mater, which prompted Jordan to laugh and shake his head.

    Read more: NASCAR Faces Federal Court Showdown Monday Over Charter System

    Inside the courtroom, top NASCAR executives Jim France and Lisa France Kennedy, representing the founding family that still owns the organization, were also in attendance. According to AP News, their presence underscores the magnitude of what’s at stake for the sport’s power structure.

    The outcome could reshape American stock-car racing. A ruling in NASCAR’s favor could result in 23XI and Front Row losing their six combined charters — a potentially devastating blow to their ability to continue competing at the Cup Series level. AP News has noted that charters command massive value, with the most recent sale reportedly reaching $45 million.

    Conversely, a win for the teams could force sweeping changes to how NASCAR operates. The plaintiffs argue that NASCAR’s control over race access, purse distribution, and supply chains violates U.S. antitrust law. Judge Bell could potentially order major structural remedies, including dismantling the charter system entirely.

    As opening statements continue, both the business foundation of NASCAR and the competitive future of some of its top teams will hang in the balance. Per AP News, nothing is off the table as the case proceeds — including the possibility of fundamentally altering the sport’s long-standing power dynamics.

    Source: AP News