Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing Wins Key Court Ruling in Antitrust Case Against NASCAR

Posted : 05 November 2025

Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports achieved a significant win in their ongoing antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR on Tuesday, as a federal judge ruled in their favor on a key issue that could shape the outcome of the case. The decision tightens the scope of the dispute and increases the likelihood of a settlement ahead of trial.

U.S. District Judge Kenneth Bell granted the teams partial summary judgment on the definition of the relevant market, siding with their argument that the case should proceed under the category of “premier stock-car racing.” The ruling rejects NASCAR’s claim that the teams could seek opportunities in other racing series like IndyCar or Formula 1, which the judge ruled are not realistic substitutes for NASCAR’s Cup Series.

Bell cited NASCAR’s own filings in making his decision, pointing out that the organization itself had described the market as “the market for entry of cars into NASCAR Cup Series races.” In his written opinion, the judge noted that NASCAR could not redefine the market to its advantage, stating, “The same transaction—the sale and purchase of premier stock-car-racing services—cannot be a different relevant market depending on which side is complaining.”

The ruling also denied NASCAR’s motion to dismiss the case, meaning the dispute will now move forward to a jury trial scheduled for December 1. Jurors will determine whether NASCAR holds monopoly power within that narrowly defined market and whether it abused that power through anticompetitive conduct.

Lead counsel Jeffrey Kessler, representing 23XI Racing and Front Row, hailed the decision as a breakthrough moment. “We are very pleased with the court’s decision today,” he said. “It not only denies NASCAR’s motion for summary judgment but also recognizes that NASCAR has monopoly power in a properly defined market. The trial can now focus on whether that power has been misused to harm the teams.”

At the center of the dispute is NASCAR’s new charter agreement, unveiled during the 2024 playoffs after more than two years of tense negotiations. The charter system guarantees race entries and revenue distribution for teams, but 23XI and Front Row argue that the revised terms left them no fair alternative. Both teams refused to sign the new deal, competing this season without charters—resulting in reduced prize money and financial strain.

Judge Bell also recently dismissed NASCAR’s countersuit against 23XI Racing, Front Row Motorsports, and Curtis Polk, a co-owner of 23XI and longtime business adviser to Michael Jordan. The upcoming trial could have sweeping implications for the structure and governance of stock-car racing in the United States.

Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing Wins Key Court Ruling in Antitrust Case Against NASCAR

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