Denny Hamlin, co-owner of 23XI Racing and a veteran NASCAR driver, has publicly criticized NASCAR’s approach toward teams that refused to sign the 2025 charter agreement, calling it “unfortunate” during a recent media session at the NASCAR Cup Series Playoff Media Day in Charlotte. His comments, shared via X by reporter Steven Taranto, stem from a contentious legal battle involving 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports, the only two of 15 charter-holding teams that declined NASCAR’s final charter proposal in September 2024. The dispute has escalated into an antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR, accusing the organization of monopolistic practices, with Hamlin emerging as a vocal advocate for change.
The heart of the conflict lies in NASCAR’s ultimatum to teams: sign the charter agreement within a tight 48-hour window or risk losing their charters, which guarantee race entries and a share of media revenue. Hamlin expressed frustration over the lack of fair negotiation, stating, “I don’t know how to explain it,” highlighting the pressure teams faced. The lawsuit, filed by 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports, points to NASCAR’s refusal to make charters permanent and restrictive clauses, including one preventing teams from suing for antitrust violations. Hamlin revealed on his Actions Detrimental podcast that this last-minute clause was a breaking point, stripping teams of their rights and prompting their defiance.
Court proceedings have unveiled NASCAR’s “Operation Gold Codes,” a plan allegedly designed to sideline non-signing teams, which Hamlin and his co-owner Michael Jordan argue threatens their survival. At a recent hearing, Judge Kenneth Bell questioned why NASCAR couldn’t sell inactive charters instead of targeting those held by 23XI and Front Row. NASCAR responded with voluntary commitments not to sell or lease new charters during the 2025 season, ensuring six open spots for the teams’ cars. However, Hamlin remains steadfast, emphasizing the trial set for December 2025 will expose NASCAR’s practices. “December 1st is all that matters. Mark your calendar,” he declared, signaling no intent to settle.
The financial stakes are high. Operating as “open” teams without charters could cost 23XI and Front Row tens of millions, as Hamlin noted, jeopardizing sponsor and driver contracts, including that of Tyler Reddick, who could become a free agent if 23XI loses its charter status. Despite these challenges, Hamlin remains confident, stating, “We’re committed to race, no matter what.” His defiance reflects a broader push for fairness in NASCAR, where he believes thriving teams benefit the sport’s fans and stakeholders. As the lawsuit looms, Hamlin’s resolve to challenge NASCAR’s authority could reshape the sport’s future, with the racing world watching closely for the trial’s outcome.
