Michael Jordan and his racing team, 23XI Racing, and Front Row Motorsport filed a joint lawsuit against NASCAR over violated antitrust laws in the U.S. District Court in Charlotte, North Carolina.
The lawsuit alleges that NASCAR used monopolistic practices that have harmed competition within the sport. It accuses NASCAR of monopolizing auto racing by eliminating competition and using anti-competitive practices. According to the plaintiffs, NASCAR’s control over the sport has detrimentally affected teams, drivers, and fans.
The lawsuit claims NASCAR has:
- Purchased a majority of the premier racetracks, enforcing exclusivity for NASCAR races.
- Acquired the Automobile Racing Club of America (ARCA), eliminating the only significant competitor in stock car racing.
- Restricted teams from participating in other stock car racing events.
- Maintained ownership over Next Gen parts and cars, forcing teams to buy from single-source suppliers handpicked by NASCAR.
Michael Jordan co-founded 23XI Racing in 2020. Following the announcement of the lawsuit, the NBA icon released a statement that reminded fans of his competitive nature. He said:
“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.”
Jordan’s team and Front Row Motorsports hope this lawsuit will foster a more competitive racing environment. The amount of the lawsuit remains unknown.
NASCAR has not released a statement about the lawsuit. More as this story develops.
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