Tensions between NASCAR and 23XI Racing, co-owned by NBA legend Michael Jordan, have reached a boiling point. The dispute revolves around NASCAR’s charter system, which guarantees race spots and prize money for teams but has been criticized for allegedly limiting competition.

While it seemed the likely outcome, the teams can reassure their drivers and sponsors they’ll still compete as the lawsuit continues.

“They [FRR] ceased to exist after a championship,” Hamlin continued. “I think that depending who you ask, I think on one side they [NASCAR] could care less whether you’re here or not and for us, we certainly have got a lot of people that have put their heart and souls into this team and want to see it succeed.”

The two teams suing NASCAR over an antitrust complaint said Saturday they will compete in 2025 as “open teams” after the sanctioning body removed anticompetitive release claims that will allow them to race while the legal process continues.

The six-time NBA champ will try Sunday to win his first title as NASCAR team owner. Tyler Reddick's No. 45 crew is glad he's on their side.

At issue is that both Jordan's 23XI and Front Row Motorsports refused to sign a take-it-or-leave-it charter agreement presented by NASCAR in September, just 48 hours before the playoffs began.

XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports will compete next season as open teams in the NASCAR Cup Series. "We are pleased to announce that NASCAR has removed the anticompetitive release requirement in its open agreement,