Michael Jordan Exposes the Real Reason Behind Charter Lawsuit
23XI Racing co-owner Michael Jordan was asked about why he sued NASCAR during his testimony on day five of the trial.
Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan (via Newsweek), Steve Phelps (via imago)
🔍 Explore this post with:
The day five the charter lawsuit was special and featured some emotional witness testimonies. 23XI Racing co-owner and NBA GOAT Michael Jordan was the star of the day, as he was in the witnessed for almost an hour, with both side’s lawyers getting the opportunity to cross examine him. Unlike the rest of the witness’ he was calm and composed, with the lawyers questioning him respect as well.
One of the significant equations that was asked to Michael Jordan was why did sue NASCAR and refused to sign the charter lawsuit. As reported by the SBJ journalist Adam Stern, the Chicago Bull’s legend pointed out that someone needs to step up and challenge the entity over the unfair system they have in place.
Michael Jordan took the witness stand Friday, saying 23XI sued NASCAR because he felt that “someone had to step forward and challenge the entity to understand that it is a real concern from our aspect,” in terms of charters not being permanent or having better economic terms.
Adam Stern reported on X.
Michael Jordan took the witness stand Friday, saying 23XI sued @NASCAR because he felt that "someone had to step forward and challenge the entity to understand that it is a real concern from our aspect," in terms of charters not being permanent or having better economic terms.
— Adam Stern (@A_S12) December 5, 2025
The second major question that was asked to Jordan was the 23XI expansion, with the team buying an SHR charter and fielding a third car, during the lawsuit drama. He asserted that it was strategic decision made by the team to increase their chances of success, as they believe having three cars given them a better shot at the title.
There was a discussion between me and Denny about being successful… People who know me know I like to win and I will pursue anything to win and getting a third charter improves our chance to win the championship.
Michael Jordan asserted.
In the same conversation, the basketball legend called out the NASCAR business model, branding them unfair. The veteran also shared his financial expectations, while initially investing in the sport alongside Denny Hamlin. He was hoping to make around 45% in revenue from 23XI Racing compared to his NBA ventures.
…Nature of the business to be unfair… We never thought we would get what basketball gets but we thought we could get closer to 45 percent.
Michael Jordan said in the court.
Michael Jordan makes hilarious admission about his favorite driver
During his testimony, the legendary racer was asked about his favorite driver growing up. Jordan grew up in North Carolina, the Mecca of NASCAR, in a family that loved racing, with his father taking him to events in his childhood.

At first, he supported the King, Richard Petty, who was his fathers’ favorite racer. But once he grew up and saw more NASCAR races, he became the fan of the original No:11 driver Cale Yarborough, he quickly apologized to friend/co-owner Denny Hamlin, who is expanding the numbers’ legacy.
Richard Petty was originally Jordan’s favorite driver because that’s who Jordan’s father rooted for, but Jordan eventually transitioned to rooting for Cale Yarborough… original No. 11… Sorry, Denny.
Michael Jordan admitted.
The comments from the NBA legend shows his passion for the sport and how much emotionally he in invested in it. This ends any narratives some might try to spread about Jordan suing the sport just for the money. It would be interesting to see if MJ can come out the court victorious as he often does.
Also Read: Kenny Wallace Demands NASCAR to “Stay in Line and Quit Losing Money”