NASCAR’s trial of the century is now just days away, and Michael Jordan will play a starring role.
Next Monday in Charlotte, the sport will defend an antitrust suit brought by MJ’s 23XI Racing team and Front Row Motorsports.
Unless we get a late settlement between now and then, the case will have massive implications for the future of NASCAR. Quite simply, it may never be the same again.
The lead-up to the trial date has already brought controversy even before the two sides enter court - notably those text messages between NASCAR Commissioner Steve Phelps and Chief Media Officer Brian Herbst. The ones which left team owner Richard Childress now considering legal action.
23XI gives Jordan key role
Tuesday provided further intrigue with the news that 23XI, in its latest filing to the court, has designated basketball legend Jordan as its corporate representative.
Now what that means, to you and me, is that MJ can be in the courtroom for literally all witness testimony. Pass the popcorn.
23XI is also arguing that Jordan’s co-owners - superstar driver Denny Hamlin and Curtis Polk - should also be allowed to do so as well. It claims the pair are essential to the presentation of the team’s case.
The news is just the latest pre-trial update which has NASCAR fans on the edge of their seats ahead of next Monday’s trial date.
As well as those Phelps/Herbst text messages, we also had the news earlier in November that Judge Kenneth Bell had ordered legendary team bosses Roger Penske and Rick Hendrick available for deposition - on any topic.
There is of course still time for it not to get that trial date, with a settlement still possible. But it is now 13 months since 23XI and Front Row first filed suit back on October 2, 2024 - so maybe we should not hold our breath.
