MOORESVILLE, N.C. — 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports are preparing to participate in the NASCAR Cup Series as “open” teams next season.
Both teams filed an antitrust suit against NASCAR, accusing the sanctioning body of being “monopolistic bullies.
The announcement came in a statement from attorney Jeffrey Kessler on behalf of the teams on Saturday morning. The news came after NASCAR removed anticompetitive release claims from agreements sent to the teams on Friday.
“We are pleased to announce that NASCAR has removed the anticompetitive release requirement in its open agreement, which will now allow 23XI and Front Row Motorsports to race as open teams in 2025,” Kessler’s statement read.
Last week a judge denied an injunction filed by the teams that would have allowed them to race next season as charter teams until the lawsuit was heard.
23XI Racing, co-owned by Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan, and Front Row Motorsports, which is owned by Bob Jenkins, have appealed that ruling.
As well, Kessler requested that the case be expedited in order for it to be heard prior to the start of next season.
“My clients will continue their appeal to the 4th Circuit to issue an injunction so they can run as chartered teams therefore avoiding irreparable harm,” Kessler said. “Both race teams are pleased that they will continue to be a participant in this sport that they love while fighting to make it fair and just for all.”
“Both race teams are pleased that they will continue to be a participant in this sport that they love while fighting to make it fair and just for all.”