In response to the lawsuit filed by 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports, NASCAR has enlisted the services of prominent attorney Chris Yates, known for representing high-profile clients like the UFC and the U.S. Soccer Federation.
The decision comes just days after the two NASCAR teams filed an antitrust lawsuit, alleging that NASCAR and its CEO, Jim France, are unlawfully dominating premier stock car racing. According to the teams, NASCAR's actions primarily serve its own interests, marginalizing the teams and undermining the competitive landscape of the sport. This legal action follows the notable rejection of NASCAR's proposed charter agreement by 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports.
Though NASCAR has not commented on the lawsuit, it has sent a message through the hiring of Yates that it remains committed to a legal battle against both teams to defend itself. However, if the court rules in favor of the teams, the sport will be forced to change its rules and the way it functions in a major way.
The two teams released a joint statement, which read:
“We share a passion for racing, the thrill of competition, and winning. Off the racetrack, we share a belief that change is necessary for the sport we love. Together, we brought this antitrust case so that racing can thrive and become a more competitive and fair sport in ways that will benefit teams, drivers, sponsors, and, most importantly, fans.”
Owner of Front Row Motorsports, Bob Jenkins said:
"I have been part of this racing community for 20 years and couldn't be more proud of the Front Row Motorsports team and our success. But the time has come for change. We need a more competitive and fair system where teams, drivers, and sponsors can be rewarded for our collective investment by building long-term enterprise value, just like every other successful professional sports league."
Co-owner and driver of 23XI Racing, Denny Hamlin stated:
"It's actually pretty simple in my opinion. When I look around, I see that the best and most competitive sports in the world understand that when teams thrive, fans benefit, and that everyone who invests in making the sport a success should share fairly in that success. With the right changes, we can certainly make that a reality in racing."
23XI partner, and basketball legend Michael Jordan added:
"Everyone knows that I have always been a fierce competitor, and that will to win is what drives me and the entire 23XI team each and every week out on the track. I love the sport of racing and the passion of our fans, but the way NASCAR is run today is unfair to teams, drivers, sponsors, and fans. Today's action shows I'm willing to fight for a competitive market where everyone wins."
