Legacy Motor Club and Rickware Racing have come to a settlement over their contentious charter sale dispute, marking an important turning point for both organizations after months of uncertainty. This agreement, while welcome relief, leaves ongoing questions about the exact terms and the timeline for the Legacy Motor Club charter sale.
Background of the Legal Battle
The conflict began in early April when Legacy Motor Club, led by Jimmie Johnson, initiated legal proceedings against Rickware Racing, alleging that RWR was reneging on a previously agreed charter sale. This sale, reportedly valued at around $45 million, was projected to take effect for the 2026 NASCAR season. The dispute stemmed from confusion over which charter was at stake, as RWR owns two: Charter 27—currently leased to RFK Racing—and Charter 36, used for their No. 51 entry, driven by Cody Ware.
As the matter made its way to court at the end of April, it became clear that LMC believed it was purchasing Charter 27, while RWR had other intentions involving Charter 36. If Charter 36 were transferred, RWR risked operating without a charter for 2026, since Charter 27 was committed to RFK Racing for the upcoming season. This created friction and uncertainty for everyone involved, including Brad Keselowski and RFK Racing, who were relying on the original leasing deal for Charter 27.
Details of the Settlement Remain Hidden
Despite the settlement, specifics of the new arrangement between Legacy Motor Club and Rickware Racing have not been disclosed, intensifying speculation in the paddock. The confidential nature of this agreement keeps fans and industry insiders guessing about which charter was sold and the exact season when Legacy Motor Club will begin using it.
Mixed Reactions and Unanswered Questions
With rumors circulating about the timing, current information suggests that Rickware Racing intends to compete as a chartered team in 2026, according to motorsports journalist Bob Pockrass, and RFK Racing has confirmed their charter lease agreement with RWR for the same year remains unchanged. This points to the likelihood that the sale to Legacy Motor Club will not take effect until the 2027 season, though official confirmation from the involved parties is still pending.
Leadership Response and Future Implications
Jimmie Johnson expressed relief that both teams could put the dispute behind them, noting the pressure and prolonged uncertainty it had created. In his statement, Johnson shared,
“I truly respect the effort put forth by (RWR President) Robby Benton and Rick Ware to reach a settlement so we may all focus on our business operations and future goals. I’m glad this is behind us, and we can all move forward in unison.”
— Jimmie Johnson, Team Co-Owner
The timing of the charter’s transfer holds significant weight for Legacy Motor Club’s Cup Series ambitions. If the agreement covers 2026, Johnson and LMC would have limited time to prepare a third Cup entry. Speculation has already swirled around potential drivers, with Xfinity Series talent Jesse Love mentioned as a leading candidate. The situation has spurred anxious discussion throughout the garage, with many looking to see how Legacy Motor Club will proceed.
While the dispute’s resolution brings momentary calm to a tense saga, both Legacy Motor Club and Rickware Racing must still clarify the long-term outcomes of their agreement. As both teams turn their attention back to competitive racing, the industry will be watching closely for official confirmation about the future role of the highly-prized charter.
As far as Rick Ware Racing’s 2026 plans, according to spokesman: “RWR will continue to race its No. 51 as a chartered entry in 2026.”
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) September 19, 2025
