Michael Jordan is suing NASCAR because he and his team believe NASCAR is acting like an illegal monopoly and using its control over the sport to impose unfair economic terms on race teams. The lawsuit argues that NASCAR’s charter system, revenue sharing, and control over cars, parts, and tracks hurt teams financially and limit competition.
Core reasons for the lawsuit
- Jordan’s 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports claim NASCAR’s charter agreement and extensions were “take‑it‑or‑leave‑it” deals that were not economically viable for teams. They say most teams felt forced to sign to avoid losing massive team value, while 23XI and Front Row refused and then sued.
- The suit alleges NASCAR operates as a monopoly by controlling the only top‑level stock‑car series, owning or controlling most tracks on the schedule, and requiring teams to use NASCAR‑approved cars and single‑source parts suppliers.
- Jordan has testified that the proposed charter extension barred teams from suing NASCAR, which he views as an antitrust problem, and that NASCAR was unwilling to negotiate on key issues like permanent charters and a more favorable, long‑term business model for teams.
What Jordan says he wants
- The lawsuit seeks to stop what the teams describe as NASCAR’s “exclusionary” practices and to change the charter and revenue structure so teams can be profitable and build long‑term enterprise value, similar to other major sports leagues.
- Jordan has framed the case as an effort to create a fairer system for teams, drivers, sponsors, and fans by opening up the business model and making the sport more sustainable for participants.
