**NASCAR Teams Owned by Michael Jordan Take Legal Action Over Alleged Antitrust Violations**

A legal storm is brewing in the world of NASCAR as two prominent teams, one co-owned by basketball legend Michael Jordan, have filed a lawsuit against the motorsport series and its CEO, Jim France. Jordan's 23XI Racing, which he co-owns with three-time Daytona 500 winner Denny Hamlin, along with Front Row Motorsports, are accusing NASCAR of using anti-competitive practices that they claim stifle fair competition.

"We share a passion for racing, the thrill of competition, and winning. Off the racetrack, we share a belief that change is necessary for the sport we love," the two teams expressed in a joint statement. "Together, we brought this antitrust case so that racing can thrive and become a more competitive and fair sport in ways that will benefit teams, drivers, sponsors, and, most importantly, fans."

The lawsuit, filed in federal court, paints NASCAR and the France family as "monopolistic bullies," alleging that their unchecked control over the sport enriches them at the expense of the teams. Jordan has emphasized the need for a system that provides equal opportunities for all stakeholders.

"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," Jordan said. "Today's action shows I'm willing to fight for a competitive market where everyone wins."

Bob Jenkins, the owner of Front Row Motorsports, echoed Jordan's sentiments, emphasizing the need for structural change within NASCAR. Jenkins, who has been involved in the racing community for 20 years, stated that despite his dedication and efforts, he has never turned a profit since joining NASCAR in 2005.

"We need a more competitive and fair system where teams, drivers, and sponsors can be rewarded for our collective investment by building long-term enterprise value, just like every other successful professional sports league," Jenkins stated.

The lawsuit also delves into the revenue-sharing model and charter agreements that have been a point of contention for more than two years of negotiations between NASCAR and the racing teams. The 1948-founded NASCAR has relied on independent stock car racing teams investing their own resources to compete in premier events, often held at tracks owned by the France family. While this model promises glory from race wins and championships, many teams claim they see little financial benefit, whereas the France family allegedly profits significantly.

The case highlights the struggles of teams like 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports, who claim they refrained from signing the new charter agreements due to coercive tactics from NASCAR. The lawsuit quotes several teams describing the negotiations as coercive, with some feeling forced to sign under duress.

NASCAR's Cup Series is currently in the playoffs' Round of 12, with the next race scheduled at Talladega Superspeedway for the YellaWood 500 in Alabama. Presently, 23XI Racing's No. 45 car is in 9th place, and the No. 23 car is in 19th place in the owners' standings.