**NASCAR Teams File Joint Antitrust Lawsuit Against Governing Body**

In a dramatic escalation of ongoing frustrations, Front Row Motorsports and 23XI Racing have jointly filed an antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR, accusing the organization of maintaining a monopolistic grip on the sport. This legal action follows months of disagreements over the new charter agreement, which both teams declined to sign.

The lawsuit claims NASCAR, controlled by the France family since its inception in 1948, has stifled competition and operated without transparency. The joint statement from the teams highlighted anti-competitive practices, including exclusive deals with racetracks, owning the majority of premier racing venues, acquiring the only significant stock car racing competitor ARCA, and limiting team participation to NASCAR-sanctioned events. Additionally, NASCAR's control over Next Gen parts and insistence on single-source suppliers are named as areas of concern.

Front Row Motorsports, led by Bob Jenkins since 2005, and 23XI Racing, co-owned by NBA legend Michael Jordan and Daytona 500 winner Denny Hamlin since 2020, argue that NASCAR's practices unfairly benefit the organization at the expense of teams, drivers, sponsors, and fans. In response, the teams plan to file a preliminary injunction to race under the 2025 charter agreement while continuing their antitrust litigation.

Denny Hamlin emphasized that thriving teams ultimately benefit fans, and that fair profit-sharing is crucial for the sport’s success. Michael Jordan underscored his commitment to fostering a competitive market where all stakeholders, from teams to fans, benefit equally. Bob Jenkins echoed these sentiments, calling for a system that rewards collective investment and fosters long-term value.

Curtis Polk, another co-owner of 23XI Racing, criticized the new charter agreement as a means to marginalize teams and consolidate power within the France family. Polk stressed the need for a transparent and fair system, advocating for a partnership approach rather than a dictatorship.

The teams seek treble damages for the anti-competitive terms imposed by the 2016 charter agreement, aiming to reshape the sport into a more competitive and equitable arena for everyone involved.