The ongoing lawsuit between NASCAR, Michael Jordan-led 23XI Racing, and Front Row Motorsports took another turn Wednesday as NASCAR countersued the teams. Led by attorney Chris Yates, NASCAR filed a 31-page document alleging the two teams conspired to pressure the organization into signing a new charter agreement.
Angered by NASCAR’s latest move, 23XI released a statement condemning the countersuit, calling it an attempt to shift attention away from what they claim are NASCAR’s monopolistic practices.
23XI, Front Row Motorsports Respond to NASCAR’s Countersuit
Taking to X, 23XI and Front Row released a statement signed by their lead attorney, Jeffrey Kessler, calling the countersuit a “meritless distraction.” The statement accuses NASCAR of trying to divert attention from its own allegedly unlawful actions.
According to the statement, NASCAR had initially agreed to hold joint negotiations on the matter but later took an aggressive stance. After early talks failed, NASCAR allegedly began negotiating with teams individually, making them feel pressured to accept the terms.
Statement from 23XI and Front Row Motorsports ownership pic.twitter.com/siNrJ7DZeS
— 23XI Racing (@23XIRacing) March 5, 2025
In the statement, Kessler said his clients’ lawsuit aims to make NASCAR a more competitive and fair sport that benefits all involved.
“Today’s counterclaim by NASCAR is a meritless distraction and a desperate attempt to shift attention away from its own unlawful, monopolistic actions,” said Kessler, who is representing 23XI and Front Row. “NASCAR agreed to the joint negotiations that they now attack. When those joint negotiations failed, they used individual negotiations to impose their charter terms, which most of the teams decided they had no choice but to accept.”
He also called NASCAR’s claims baseless, adding, “We are confident in the strength of our case.”
Meanwhile, Yates, NASCAR’s lead attorney, has made it clear that NASCAR will not renegotiate under any circumstances. However, he said the organization will abide by any court-ordered mediation process.
Jordan is no stranger to the spotlight and the speculation that comes with it, but this four-wheel fight could be far from over.
