Michael Jordan — NBA Hall of Fame legend and co-owner of 23XI Racing — has filed a major lawsuit against NASCAR, accusing the organization of running an illegal monopoly that blocks competition and prevents teams from earning fair profits. The lawsuit has sent shockwaves through both the sports world and the racing industry, setting up a legal battle that could reshape the future of NASCAR.
Jordan Says NASCAR Controls Everything
According to the lawsuit, Jordan claims that NASCAR tightly controls the entire racing system, from how teams operate to how much money they can make. Jordan argues that NASCAR uses its power to “crush competition,” limit opportunities, and protect its own financial interests.
The NBA Hall of Fame icon says teams are trapped in a structure where:
- NASCAR controls the race schedule
- NASCAR controls sponsorship rules
- NASCAR controls media rights
- NASCAR controls team revenue distribution
Jordan’s lawsuit states that this system makes it “nearly impossible” for teams to profit, even when they perform well.
Jordan’s Team Says They Are Losing Money — Even While Winning
Michael Jordan co-owns 23XI Racing, the NASCAR team he launched with driver Denny Hamlin. The team includes stars like Bubba Wallace and Tyler Reddick.
Even with strong performances, Jordan argues that teams struggle to survive because NASCAR keeps most of the money coming from:
- Broadcast deals
- Sponsorships
- Track agreements
- Merchandise
Teams, according to the lawsuit, receive only a small share of the profits, while NASCAR “keeps the majority” in an unfair structure.
A statement from Jordan’s legal team says:
“No sports league in America gives teams so little control and so little chance to succeed financially.”
The NBA Hall of Fame Star Brings Big Legal Pressure
Jordan is not just any team owner. He is one of the most powerful and recognizable sports figures in American history. As an NBA Hall of Fame superstar, billionaire, and global icon, his involvement instantly raised the stakes of this lawsuit.
Sports lawyers say Jordan’s lawsuit could force NASCAR to:
- Change its business model
- Give teams more financial control
- Open competition for revenue deals
- Create a more balanced partnership with owners
One attorney said,
“When someone like Michael Jordan takes you to court, it means he sees a problem — and he expects a big change.”
NASCAR Responds: “We Did Nothing Wrong”
NASCAR quickly fired back. The organization denies every claim and argues that its model is legal, efficient, and fair.
In a public statement, NASCAR said:
“Our structure supports strong competition, safe racing, and long-term growth for teams and fans.”
They accuse Jordan of misunderstanding NASCAR’s business operations and say the current model has supported teams for decades.
But Jordan’s legal team argues that NASCAR grew so large and powerful over the years that it now functions like a monopoly. They say NASCAR controls every major decision in the sport and leaves team owners with no real choice but to obey.
Why This Lawsuit Matters for the Future of NASCAR
This case is important because it challenges the core system NASCAR has used for years.
If Michael Jordan wins, NASCAR may be forced to:
- Share more revenue with teams
- Allow teams more independence
- Limit NASCAR’s control over business operations
- Increase transparency in how money flows inside the sport
This could lead to a major shift in power from NASCAR to team owners.
Some racing analysts say this could be the most important legal fight in NASCAR history. Others believe Jordan’s involvement brings credibility, attention, and momentum that other owners could not achieve alone.
Fans across the U.S. are reacting strongly.
Some support Jordan and believe teams deserve more financial rights.
Others worry the lawsuit could divide the sport.
Many NASCAR fans are asking:
- Will this hurt upcoming races?
- Could the lawsuit change how teams operate?
- Will star drivers leave if the system stays the same?
For now, NASCAR continues its schedule, but the tension is growing.
What Happens Next?
The lawsuit now moves to federal court. Legal experts expect months of negotiations, hearings, and public debate.
Michael Jordan says he is fighting not just for his team, but for every team in the sport. NASCAR insists it will defend its structure and protect its business model.
One thing is certain:
This battle between an NBA Hall of Fame legend and one of America’s biggest racing organizations will shape the future of NASCAR.