Michael Jordan, the basketball legend turned NASCAR team owner, made a special appearance at the 2026 Daytona 500. As a co-owner of 23XI Racing, Jordan expressed his deep connection to the race, highlighting how it was a family tradition for him while growing up in North Carolina. He reminisced about sitting with his family for hours watching the race and how it allowed him to reconnect with his roots.
Having been a lifelong NASCAR fan, Jordan’s involvement in the sport has evolved over the years. In 2021, he launched 23XI Racing in partnership with Denny Hamlin, expanding it into a multi-car team competing in the Cup Series. At the 2026 Daytona 500, Jordan arrived with four entries, with drivers like Tyler Reddick, Bubba Wallace, Riley Herbst, and Corey Heim representing his team on the track.
In addition to his team’s performance on the track, Jordan also discussed the recent settlement of the antitrust lawsuit involving 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports. After a lengthy legal battle, the two sides reached a negotiated resolution that secured permanent charters and new commercial structures for teams. Jordan emphasized the importance of communication and collaboration between teams and NASCAR to continue growing the sport.
Following the settlement, 23XI Racing regained its charters and received compensation for competing as an open team during the dispute. With a renewed focus on permanent entries and expanded resources, Michael Jordan is committed to further establishing his presence in NASCAR and contributing to the growth of the sport.
As Jordan continues to make strides in the NASCAR world, his passion for the sport and dedication to success are evident. His journey from a fan watching races with his family to a team owner at the Daytona 500 showcases his deep connection to the sport and his commitment to its future. With each race, Jordan’s impact on NASCAR continues to grow, solidifying his place as a prominent figure in the racing community.
