Particle.news

Download on the App Store

NASCAR Seeks Summary Judgment, Touts Owner Backing in 23XI–Front Row Antitrust Fight

NASCAR's motion leans on owner declarations plus a statute‑of‑limitations defense ahead of the Dec. 1 trial.

Overview

  • NASCAR asked a federal judge to end the case before trial, arguing discovery undercuts 23XI and Front Row’s antitrust claims and previewing defenses likely to be tested in court.
  • The filing includes declarations from prominent owners such as Rick Hendrick, Roger Penske, Joe Gibbs, Richard Childress and Brad Keselowski supporting the charter system; NASCAR says 13 of 15 full‑time teams signed the 2025 agreement and cites $1.5 billion in equity gains and a 49% media‑revenue share for teams.
  • Legal arguments in the motion highlight time‑bar issues for conduct dating to 2016–2019, prior release clauses, an asserted market broader than the Cup Series and alleged failure by plaintiffs to show damages.
  • 23XI and Front Row maintain the charter framework is monopolistic and have sought rulings on defining the Cup Series as the relevant market; after an injunction was vacated, both teams are competing as open entries while NASCAR says it will not reallocate the disputed charters during the case.
  • NASCAR has countersued 23XI, Front Row and Curtis Polk for alleged cartel‑like conduct, the trial remains scheduled for Dec. 1, 2025, and legal observers caution that appeals could extend the dispute into 2026.