Denny Hamlin responds to NASCAR lawsuit concerns, affirming that 23XI Racing remains steady despite recently losing its charter status following a court ruling. Hamlin has reassured fans and team members that neither drivers like Tyler Reddick nor operations at 23XI will be affected by the ongoing legal dispute.
Hamlin Addresses Team Stability Amid Legal Battle
After NASCAR‘s successful court appeal removed charter benefits from 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports, both teams became open entries for the current season. The change raised questions about whether drivers or sponsors might leave 23XI due to the loss of these protections. Hamlin, however, emphasized to fans and employees that any challenges from the lawsuit will be managed by the ownership group, ensuring that the core operations and jobs at 23XI will remain secure.
He highlighted that he and co-owner Michael Jordan are resolved to keep the team competing in NASCAR, no matter the court’s decision. Hamlin has made clear promises to his team that the legal situation will not impact their work or future. He remains direct in his communication with fans and media, emphasizing confidence and transparency throughout the process.
“I have absolutely zero concern about the lawsuit. I know the facts and I have zero concern.”
—Denny Hamlin, Team Owner
Hamlin mentioned to Bob Pockrass that a clearer outcome is expected at the next court appearance. He reiterated that, regardless of what transpires, 23XI Racing plans to maintain its presence in NASCAR, with continued openness about any further developments once the case concludes in December.
Changes in Competition Under the Next Gen Era
Denny Hamlin has shared insights on how the introduction of NASCAR‘s Next Gen car in 2022 has intensified competition, highlighting that most vehicles are now running at nearly identical speeds. This shift, he explained, means gaining and holding onto track position has become much more difficult for all teams, not just the front-runners.
According to Hamlin, success now leans heavily on qualifying performance and race strategy, as the performance gap among teams has diminished. Playoff points are distributed more evenly, increasing the likelihood for a larger pool of drivers to make it into the championship battle.
“Everything is just a little bit closer. Track position means a little more. Qualifying means a little bit more. Playoff points are spread out amongst the field. Slightly more than what it’s been in the past.”
—Denny Hamlin, Team Owner
“I think, if anything, you’re looking at probably the bottom four guys right now chomping at the bit, knowing they’re only 20-some points out of the point lead. I think that it’s wide open from that stance of where you could have someone very unexpected make it to the Final Four.”
—Denny Hamlin, Team Owner
Hamlin also noted that this increased parity has left little room for mistakes, and even minor setbacks can impact an entire season. Despite these challenges, he approaches the playoffs with momentum, buoyed by four race victories and seven additional top-five finishes.
Looking Ahead for 23XI Racing and NASCAR
The legal proceedings affecting 23XI Racing serve as a pivotal moment for teams outside the charter system, while the competitive changes introduced by the Next Gen era present new opportunities and challenges across the playoff field. As Hamlin and Michael Jordan remain committed to their organization’s stability, attention will turn to December for the final resolution of the lawsuit. Meanwhile, the evolving dynamics on the track suggest that this season could see both established drivers and unexpected contenders battling deep into the playoffs.
