CHARLOTTE, NC. — In a federal hearing tied to a brewing antitrust case, explosive text messages and emails involving Michael Jordan and NASCAR officials surfaced in court. The reveal turned private frustration into public drama.
Michael Jordan’s Fired-Up Messages Flash In NASCAR Lawsuit Showdown
Jordan Pushes Back
Apr 6, 2025; Darlington, South Carolina, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Tyler Reddick (45) team owner Michael Jordan watches his racer during the Goodyear 400 at Darlington Raceway. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
Jordan, co-owner of 23XI Racing, didn’t hold back. In messages to his business manager Curtis Polk, he warned rivals: “Teams are going to regret not joining us,” and branded others as “f—ers” for signing NASCAR’s charter agreements. He made his point undeniably clear.
Standing Firm Against NASCAR
Jordan’s team, along with Front Row Motorsports, sued NASCAR after refusing their new charter agreements—contracts that act like franchise ownership in other sports. NASCAR countersued, accusing them of behaving like an “illegal cartel.” The back-and-forth has escalated into a high-stakes courtroom battle.
A Judge’s Warning
U.S. District Judge Kenneth Bell cautioned both sides that the outcome could shake NASCAR’s entire charter system. A final decision on whether the teams retain their guaranteed race entries could come as early as next week, with a full trial scheduled for December.
NASCAR Hits Back
NASCAR’s executives didn’t stay silent. One executive texted carpingly about reverting to 1996 “Southern,” “tiny sport” roots and told teams, “f— the teams.” That message underscored the tension between the sanctioning body and teams pushing back against its dominance.
Jordan Doubles Down
Outside the courtroom, MJ framed the case as bigger than money. “I feel like we made a good statement today,” he said, vowing to “go down with fire.” He claimed teams operate at a loss, and this fight is for the sport’s future.
Credit:© Jasen Vinlove-Imagn Images