Michael Jordan's Racing Team Lawsuit Against NASCAR Advances Toward December Trial

A federal judge has upheld a preliminary injunction allowing two teams, including Jordan's 23XI Racing, to compete as chartered teams in 2025 despite NASCAR's attempts to dismiss the antitrust case.

• Michael Jordan's 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports filed an antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR, claiming unfair treatment and monopoly practices in the charter system for racing teams.
• U.S. District Judge Kenneth Bell granted a preliminary injunction in December 2024, ensuring the teams can compete as chartered teams in the 2025 season while the lawsuit proceeds.
• NASCAR sought to have the lawsuit dismissed and requested the teams post a financial bond to cover potential payouts if they lose the case, but Judge Bell indicated the case would move forward with a trial set for December 1, 2025.
• The lawsuit stems from a dispute over NASCAR's charter system, which guarantees financial incentives and race entries for certain teams, with 23XI and Front Row refusing to sign a new agreement they deemed unfair.
• Judge Bell has shown a firm grasp of the case, challenging both sides during hearings and emphasizing the need to resolve disputes efficiently while maintaining a light-hearted tone in court proceedings.

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