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Denny Hamlin recently addressed the uncertain future of 23XI Racing’s involvement in the NASCAR Cup Series for 2025, noting that the decision is still pending. The uncertainty stems from a legal dispute where 23XI Racing, co-owned by Hamlin and NBA icon Michael Jordan, and Front Row Motorsports (FRM) filed an anti-trust lawsuit against NASCAR, alleging the organization’s restrictive practices toward teams.
The conflict arose during recent charter negotiations, with the teams pushing for changes to the existing contract. However, NASCAR imposed a signing deadline that FRM and 23XI Racing ultimately missed, leaving them outside the current agreement. As a result, they filed the lawsuit, which saw its first hearing earlier this month. Discussing this in Phoenix, Hamlin expressed cautious optimism about the case’s progress, saying, “The judge sees merits in the case… and will expedite the discovery side of it.”
Hamlin also hinted that the lawsuit’s outcome could influence whether 23XI Racing will continue in 2025, calling it a “fluid situation.” When asked if the team’s charters would still be active that season, he admitted, “It’s all TBD. There’s certain things that we’re going to have to navigate, so I hope so.” Since its debut in 2021, 23XI Racing has made strides in the Cup Series, securing seven race wins, a success partially attributed to Hamlin’s extensive experience, though he has yet to win a Cup Series championship himself.
Despite the team’s legal battle and his own elusive championship title, Hamlin remains determined to eventually claim NASCAR’s top honor. He has been with Joe Gibbs Racing since his debut in 2005, consistently competing in the playoffs but falling short of the ultimate prize. After missing the Championship 4 this year due to a fifth-place finish in Martinsville, Hamlin discussed his hopes on the Actions Detrimental podcast, reflecting, “I still feel like I can win. I’m way too competitive to race if I don’t think I can.”
Hamlin’s confidence remains strong, as he affirmed his intent to leave NASCAR only when he’s no longer competitive. He believes his skill level still allows him to “dominate any given week,” emphasizing that he will not retire on a losing streak. Heading into 2025, he will continue racing in the No. 11 Toyota for Joe Gibbs Racing, staying focused on his ambition to secure that elusive championship while facing the legal challenges that may shape 23XI Racing’s future in the sport.