Charlotte, N.C. - Basketball legend Michael Jordan testified in federal court today, stating he felt compelled to file an antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR despite his respect for the sport and its chairman, Jim France.Jordan, principal owner of 23XI Racing, asserted the lack of permanent team charters threatened the viability of his race team and others, leaving him with no choice but legal action.
Jordan’s testimony centered on the negotiations for charter extensions, which ultimately failed to provide the long-term security he and other team owners sought. He recounted how NASCAR’s final offer on a Friday night lacked permanent charters, a deal he described as devastating. His father-in-law, joe gibbs, pleaded with France for a resolution, but according to Jordan, France abruptly ended the conversation.
The lawsuit, brought by 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports, alleges NASCAR is illegally stifling competition through its control of the charter system. heather Gibbs, representing Joe Gibbs Racing, testified she was forced to sign the offered agreement despite believing it unfair, fearing the loss of her team’s entire investment. She described leaving her 84-year-old father-in-law “sitting in the dark, listening to his blood sugar monitors going off” as they rushed to meet a deadline.
Jordan emphasized the financial risks faced by teams like his, which rely solely on sponsorship and investors. Joe Gibbs Racing, celebrating its 35th season next year, has 450 employees and fields four Cup cars. Jordan stated permanent charters are “absolutely vital” for teams to protect their investments and ensure a “permanent place in their history books.”
He also voiced concern for the drivers,stating they risk their lives each week without the benefits of an insurance policy or union representation.”I never saw Jim France drive a car. I never saw Jim France risk his life,” Jordan testified, arguing more credit should be given to those who compete on the track. Both 23XI and Front Row Motorsports have indicated they are likely to cease operations if they cannot secure charters following this season.
