NBA legend Michael Jordan is taking NASCAR to court over its business practices. In a highly anticipated appearance, Jordan testified that the sport's governing body, NASCAR, has been engaging in anticompetitive behavior, effectively stifling innovation and creating an uneven playing field for teams.
Jordan, who co-owns 23XI Racing alongside Denny Hamlin, said he decided to sue after discovering that the team was given an ultimatum: sign a 112-page extension or forfeit its charter. The team refused, citing concerns over the economic viability of the deal and allegations that NASCAR had engaged in antitrust violations.
The stakes are high for Jordan and his co-owner Hamlin, who have invested millions into their team. In contrast, rival owner Bob Jenkins has reportedly lost hundreds of millions of dollars since launching his own team. The drama surrounding charter signings and revenue guarantees is a major point of contention between the teams and NASCAR officials.
Jordan expressed frustration with the lack of open-mindedness on the part of NASCAR, stating that there was "no room for conversation" when it came to changing the charter system. He also noted that he owns 60% of 23XI and has invested significant resources into the team.
The trial is set to hear allegations that NASCAR is a monopolistic bully, using its dominance to stifle competition and limit opportunities for teams. Jordan's actions mark a bold move by a sports icon who is not afraid to speak out against what he sees as unfair business practices.
Jordan, who co-owns 23XI Racing alongside Denny Hamlin, said he decided to sue after discovering that the team was given an ultimatum: sign a 112-page extension or forfeit its charter. The team refused, citing concerns over the economic viability of the deal and allegations that NASCAR had engaged in antitrust violations.
The stakes are high for Jordan and his co-owner Hamlin, who have invested millions into their team. In contrast, rival owner Bob Jenkins has reportedly lost hundreds of millions of dollars since launching his own team. The drama surrounding charter signings and revenue guarantees is a major point of contention between the teams and NASCAR officials.
Jordan expressed frustration with the lack of open-mindedness on the part of NASCAR, stating that there was "no room for conversation" when it came to changing the charter system. He also noted that he owns 60% of 23XI and has invested significant resources into the team.
The trial is set to hear allegations that NASCAR is a monopolistic bully, using its dominance to stifle competition and limit opportunities for teams. Jordan's actions mark a bold move by a sports icon who is not afraid to speak out against what he sees as unfair business practices.