NBA legend Michael Jordan and NASCAR star Denny Hamlin are celebrating after reaching a settlement in their high-profile antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR. The lawsuit, filed by Jordan’s 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports, challenged NASCAR’s revenue-sharing model, which the teams alleged was unfair and monopolistic.

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Background of the NASCAR Antitrust Lawsuit

The legal battle, which lasted eight days in court, centered on claims that NASCAR’s revenue-sharing policies favored certain teams over others, creating an uneven playing field. Jordan, 62, and Hamlin, 45, argued that the sport’s business model hindered competition and limited opportunities for smaller racing teams.

Attorney Jeffrey Kessler, representing the racing teams, said in court:

“I’m pleased to say the parties have positively settled this matter in a way that will benefit the industry going forward.”

Although the settlement terms have not been publicly disclosed, the racing teams regained ownership of three charters that had been affected during the litigation.

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Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin React to the Settlement

After the trial concluded on Thursday, December 11, Jordan and Hamlin addressed reporters outside the Charles R. Jonas Federal Building.

Jordan emphasized the importance of collaboration in growing the sport:

“Only way this sport is going to grow is we have to find some synergy between the two entities, and I think we’ve gotten to that point.”

He also noted that while it took 16 months to reach this settlement, he is proud of the progress made:

“I’m very proud of that, and I think Jim [France, NASCAR CEO] feels the same.”

Hamlin shared his thoughts on social media platform X (formerly Twitter):

“Standing up isn’t easy, but progress never comes from staying silent. The reward is in knowing you changed something.”

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NASCAR CEO Jim France Comments

Following the trial, NASCAR CEO Jim France expressed optimism about moving forward and focusing on racing:

“We spent a lot of time not really focused on that as much as we need to be. So I feel like we’ve made a very good decision here together, and we have a big opportunity to continue growing the sport.”

France’s comments indicate a commitment to collaboration between NASCAR and team owners to improve competitive fairness and promote the sport.

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Industry Reactions and Next Steps

The settlement was well-received by other stakeholders in the NASCAR community. Front Row Motorsports owner Bob Jenkins stated,

“We’re ready to go racing,” signaling a renewed focus on the upcoming season.

Judge Kenneth D. Bell, who presided over the case, also congratulated both parties for reaching a resolution, marking the end of a contentious but pivotal legal battle in professional racing.

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Key Takeaways

• Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing and Denny Hamlin settled their antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR on December 11, 2025.
• The lawsuit challenged NASCAR’s revenue-sharing model, which was deemed unfair by the teams.
• Settlement terms remain confidential, but the racing teams regained three lost charters.
• Jordan and Hamlin emphasized collaboration and growth for the sport in post-trial statements.
• NASCAR CEO Jim France and other industry figures expressed optimism about the future of racing.