Denny Hamlin addressed the ongoing antitrust lawsuits involving NASCAR, delivering his first public comments on the matter Saturday at Charlotte Motor Speedway. His remarks come after NASCAR filed legal documents urging the judge to rule against 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports, raising tension around the future of the charter system—a central topic for teams and stakeholders.
Hamlin Responds to NASCAR’s Legal Push
NASCAR’s recent filing included signed statements from ten different team owners, all voicing their support for the charter system’s continuation, while requesting its value remain intact. The legal move aims to strengthen NASCAR’s position in court as it seeks a ruling against 23XI Racing, co-owned by Hamlin, and Front Row Motorsports regarding the fundamentals of the current system.
Asked about the situation, Hamlin shared his candid take on the maneuver.
“I didn’t think it was super helpful for them. Honestly, I thought it was more helpful for us. Obviously, as (the team owners all) said, they were asked to do it.”
–Denny Hamlin, Team Owner and Driver
The uncertainty resulting from the legal battle has prompted questions about how morale is holding up among the 23XI Racing staff.
23XI Racing Faces Uncertainty With Confidence
Despite the potential turmoil, Hamlin maintains that his team remains optimistic and secure in their positions, irrespective of the lawsuit’s outcome.
“I think the morale is good,”
–Denny Hamlin, Team Owner and Driver
He further assured that proactive discussions with 23XI Racing employees have contributed to a sense of stability.
“We’ve had discussions with our employess. They know where they stand in the short term and the long term with the company no matter the outcome.”
–Denny Hamlin, Team Owner and Driver
Bubba Wallace Keeps Focus On Racing
Amid the swirling legal and organizational challenges, 23XI Racing driver Bubba Wallace revealed he chooses not to dwell on matters beyond his control. Wallace explained his position on remaining focused amid the distractions, stating,
“I focus on the things that I can control and let everything else sit on the background,”
–Bubba Wallace, Driver
He added,
“Didn’t even know anything went on last night, so that just shows you, I guess, how out of tune I am, but focused, for me, on the more important things.”
–Bubba Wallace, Driver
What’s Next for NASCAR and 23XI Racing?
As both the court and the NASCAR community await the judge’s decision, the stakes remain high for Hamlin, other team owners, employees, and drivers. With the future of the charter system—and potentially the balance of power in the sport—on the line, the Denny Hamlin NASCAR lawsuit response is setting the tone for a legal and organizational showdown that could reshape the landscape of NASCAR.
