### NASCAR Teams Get Green Light to Compete Amid Antitrust Lawsuit

In a significant development in the ongoing antitrust lawsuit, racing teams 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports, owned by Michael Jordan and others, have secured the right to compete in the 2025 NASCAR season. This assurance comes after NASCAR agreed to modify its "open" team agreement by removing a contentious clause that prevented teams from bringing legal action against the organization.

The announcement was made public on Saturday morning, clarifying that both teams would be allowed to race as "open" entries in 2025. This marks an important step as the teams continue to seek legal recognition as "charter" teams, which would guarantee their entry into each race and secure higher payouts. Attorney Jeffrey Kessler, representing the teams, expressed satisfaction with NASCAR’s decision, stating it allows the teams to continue participating in the sport while pursuing fairness and justice.

The core issue at hand is an appeal to the Fourth Circuit Court to grant an injunction allowing 23XI and Front Row to compete as "chartered" teams, thereby preventing what they claim would be irreparable harm. Judge Frank Whitney previously denied this preliminary injunction on November 8, ruling that it was premature to claim irreparable harm with the 2025 season still months away. The appeal process continues, with no scheduled date for a hearing yet.

Being classified as "open" teams does pose a competitive threat to 23XI and Front Row, mainly if more than 40 cars turn up for events such as the Daytona 500. The drivers, including notable names like Bubba Wallace and Tyler Reddick, would have to secure their spots through qualifying rounds, risking the possibility of missing critical races.

Despite the ongoing legal battle, the removal of the anti-legal action clause reassures their sponsors and drivers of participation in the upcoming season. NASCAR has yet to comment on the latest developments, as both sides prepare for the next legal steps.