Speculation is swirling around the NASCAR community as rumors suggest Denny Hamlin may be preparing to end his longtime partnership with 23XI Racing. While no official statement has been released, the mere possibility of Hamlin stepping away from the team he co-founded with NBA legend Michael Jordan has sparked intense debate among fans and analysts.
Hamlin, who remains a full-time driver for Joe Gibbs Racing in the Cup Series, has played a crucial role in shaping 23XI Racing since its debut in 2021. Under his leadership, the team has expanded from a single-car operation to a multi-car organization, bringing in notable drivers like Bubba Wallace and Tyler Reddick. The team has achieved significant milestones, including race wins and playoff appearances, proving its potential as a serious competitor in the sport.
However, recent legal challenges and conflicts with NASCAR’s charter system have raised questions about the future of 23XI Racing. In late 2024, the team, alongside Front Row Motorsports, filed an antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR, challenging aspects of the revenue-sharing model and franchise agreements. With tensions mounting, some believe Hamlin could be reassessing his role in team ownership, especially if the lawsuit results in major changes to how teams operate financially.
Another factor fueling speculation is Hamlin’s dual responsibilities as both a driver and a team owner. Managing a race team while competing at a high level in the Cup Series is no small task. While Hamlin has successfully balanced both roles, could he now be considering stepping away from 23XI to focus solely on his driving career? His recent contract extension with Joe Gibbs Racing suggests that he remains committed to racing, but his long-term future as a team owner remains uncertain.
Despite the rumors, there is no concrete evidence confirming Hamlin’s departure from 23XI Racing. Given his deep investment in the team’s success, it seems unlikely that he would walk away unless there were major internal or financial obstacles. Until an official statement is made, fans can only speculate on what the future holds for Hamlin and 23XI Racing.
For now, 23XI Racing continues to prepare for the 2025 season, with a growing presence in the Cup Series. Whether Hamlin remains at the helm or not, the team’s impact on NASCAR is undeniable, and its trajectory will be closely watched in the coming months.
