23XI Racing, a NASCAR Cup Series organization co-owned by basketball legend Michael Jordan and renowned driver Denny Hamlin, marks its entrance into the NASCAR Cup Series in 2021. With Jordan’s majority ownership and Hamlin’s minority stake, the team fielded drivers Bubba Wallace, Tyler Reddick, Travis Pastrana, and Kamui Kobayashi with a technical alliance with Joe Gibbs Racing.
Inception and Naming
The team’s name, pronounced as “twenty-three eleven,” is symbolic. It combines Jordan’s iconic jersey number “23” from his NBA career and Hamlin’s “11,” a respectful nod to Hamlin’s long association with Joe Gibbs Racing. Bubba Wallace, a single-car team driver, takes the wheel of the #23 Toyota Camry.
Sponsorship and Vision
Partnering with Columbia, DoorDash, Dr. Pepper, McDonalds, and Root Insurance, 23XI Racing prepared for a strong 2021 season, entering the field fully funded. Wallace’s confidence for the season aligns with the team’s reliance on Hamlin’s experience to excel in NASCAR.
Racing Journey and Developments
The team’s origin story dates back to rumors in the summer of 2020 about Jordan’s potential ownership in Richard Petty Motorsports, later culminating in the formation of 23XI Racing. The team’s acquisition of a charter for Germain Racing and strategic alliances with Joe Gibbs Racing set the stage for its launch.
Evolving Car Numbers and Notable Moments
Car #23, initially driven by Kurt Busch in 2022, later saw a transition to Wallace after a series of events including Busch’s withdrawal from full-time racing. Tyler Reddick took over the No. 45 in 2023, securing a win at Kansas during the playoffs.
Diverse Entries and Debut Performances
Beyond the primary cars, the team introduced the No. 67 Toyota Camry driven by Travis Pastrana and Kamui Kobayashi. Pastrana’s entry into the Daytona 500 and Kobayashi’s debut at Indianapolis Motor Speedway showcased 23XI Racing’s multifaceted approach to competition.
This collaboration between a sports icon and a racing veteran, backed by an array of sponsors, marks the emergence of 23XI Racing as a formidable force in NASCAR. As it evolves through various drivers and car numbers, the team’s commitment to excellence remains at the forefront of the NASCAR Cup Series.
23XI RACING DRIVERS
Bubba Wallace (#23)
Bubba Wallace, steering the #23 Toyota Camry, is a standout driver for 23XI Racing. Hes not just known for his racing prowess but also for his impactful off-track initiatives. Wallace’s track record reflects his skill set, earning admiration in various NASCAR competitions.
Tyler Reddick (#45)
Taking charge of the #45 car, Tyler Reddick brings his experience and racing expertise to 23XI Racing. His achievements in NASCAR, marked by victories and consistent performance, bolster the team’s competitive standing.
Travis Pastrana and Kamui Kobayashi (#67)
Travis Pastrana and Kamui Kobayashi made appearances in specific races, handling the #67 Toyota Camry. Their involvement signals 23XI Racings interest in diversifying its driver lineup and exploring new avenues with seasoned drivers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q:What is 23XI Racing?
A: 23XI Racing is a NASCAR team founded by basketball icon Michael Jordan and driver Denny Hamlin. The team competes in the NASCAR Cup Series and fields cars with numbers #23, #45, and #67, driven by prominent names like Bubba Wallace, Tyler Reddick, Travis Pastrana, and Kamui Kobayashi.
Q: How did the team originate?
A: In the summer of 2020, speculations surfaced about Michael Jordan’s interest in NASCAR ownership. The team officially formed in September 2020, with Jordan, Hamlin, and Bubba Wallace as its foundation, securing a guaranteed starting spot for the 2021 season.
Q: What’s the significance of the team name?
A: The name “23XI” signifies a blend of Michael Jordan’s iconic jersey number “23” from his basketball career and Denny Hamlin’s longstanding racing number “11.” The Roman numeral “XI” stands as an homage to Hamlin’s racing number, steering clear of dislodging the #11 from Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR).
Q: Who are the key drivers associated with 23XI Racing?
A: The team’s prominent drivers include Bubba Wallace, who steers the #23 Toyota Camry, and Tyler Reddick, now driving the #45. Additionally, Travis Pastrana and Kamui Kobayashi made attempts with the team’s #67 car in select races.
Q: What sponsors are affiliated with 23XI Racing?
A: 23XI Racing boasts a sponsorship lineup featuring Columbia, DoorDash, Dr. Pepper, McDonalds, and Root Insurance, securing substantial support for their racing endeavors in the NASCAR Cup Series.
Q: What notable milestones has the team achieved?
A: In 2022, 23XI Racing expanded by introducing Kurt Busch as their driver for the #45 car, acquiring a charter from StarCom Racing, and experiencing a mix of victories and challenges throughout the season.
Q: What’s the team’s vision for the future?
A: Heading into 2023, the team witnessed a transition as Tyler Reddick took the wheel, scoring wins and facing scrutineering issues, marking an evolution as they continue to navigate the competitive landscape of NASCAR.
Q: How does 23XI Racing impact the broader NASCAR landscape?
A: Beyond their primary entries, 23XI Racing’s involvement with additional drivers in select races showcases their commitment to expanding their footprint in the NASCAR Cup Series.
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Our Reader’s Queries
How much is 23XI Racing worth?
Michael Jordan’s team, along with its sponsors Pepper and McDonald’s, boasts an impressive net worth of $150 million. The fact that Jordan is now a team owner is not only significant for him personally, but also for the world of NASCAR. This exciting development has already drawn in a larger fan base and is sure to continue doing so in the future.
How many cars does 23XI have?
23XI Racing’s No. 23 Toyota secured its first-ever victory at Talladega Superspeedway, along with three top 5 and three top 10 finishes. The team has now expanded to two cars, with Kurt Busch taking the wheel of the No. 45 Toyota for the 2022 season.
How do you pronounce 23XI Racing?
In 2020, NBA icon Michael Jordan and three-time Daytona 500 champion Denny Hamlin established 23XI Racing, which is pronounced as “twenty-three eleven.”
Who are the sponsors partners of Bubba Wallace No 23 or 23XI Racing?
Bubba Wallace and the 23XI Racing team have exciting news to share! The United States Air Force will be a primary sponsor for the No. 23 Toyota team in the upcoming NASCAR Cup Series. This sponsorship will cover multiple races in 2024, giving the team and driver a boost of support and recognition. It’s an honor to have the Air Force on board, and we can’t wait to see what this partnership will bring to the track.
