Denny Hamlin, co-owner of the 23XI Racing team and prominent NASCAR driver, has publicly criticized NASCAR as the organization prepares to defend itself in an upcoming lawsuit alleging monopolistic behavior. The widely discussed Denny Hamlin NASCAR lawsuit, set to begin in court in just two days, has drawn national attention as teams and fans await the high-profile proceedings.
Mounting Tensions as 23XI and FRM Challenge NASCAR’s Practices
With 23XI Racing, co-owned by Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin, and another team, Front Row Motorsports (FRM), accusing NASCAR of monopolizing the sport, the scene is set for a complex legal battle. Their case revolves around alleged unfair practices in the stock car racing market, making the outcome significant for the structure of NASCAR competition and the business surrounding it. Given Hamlin and Jordan’s reputations, their involvement ensures the lawsuit will continue to lead headlines as details unfold in the courtroom.
NASCAR itself enters this period facing considerable uncertainty, following a slew of recent developments that have intensified scrutiny of its operations. Hamlin, anticipating the trial, has stated that he is eager for undisclosed details and, as he put it, “the truth” to emerge during proceedings.
Hamlin’s Social Media Criticisms Prior to Legal Proceedings
The controversy intensified when ESPN journalist Ryan McGee published an analysis ahead of the trial that questioned the motives behind Jordan’s involvement, suggesting an attempt to fundamentally alter the sport. Denny Hamlin responded publicly on X (formerly Twitter), directing sharp criticism at both the article and NASCAR’s communication strategies.
Replying directly to McGee’s article, Hamlin stated,
“Please give credit to @mforde for helping you write this propaganda piece that they want pushed to switch the narrative. Continuous lies about our stance, NASCAR’s motives for its actions, and continued message from the sanctioning body that everything is fine. Our fans know better.”
— Denny Hamlin, Co-owner & Driver
This exchange highlighted Hamlin’s frustration with NASCAR’s communications director, Mike Forde, whom Hamlin appeared to accuse of influencing media narratives. Hamlin’s tweet quickly gained attention among fans, escalating discourse around NASCAR’s public image and transparency just as the trial was set to begin.
McGee responded by assuring that he had strived for impartiality in his coverage, acknowledging ongoing developments and explaining that more details would surface as the case unfolded. Yet, Hamlin’s next comment made it clear that he believed media coverage continued to be skewed by pressure from NASCAR, and he was determined for the truth to emerge once the trial started and new evidence became public.
“Our fans have been brainwashed with their talking points for decades. Narratives pushed by media who are intimidated by them. Lies are over starting Monday morning. It’s time for the truth. It’s time for change.”
— Denny Hamlin, Co-owner & Driver
Clashing Narratives and Clarifications Around the Legal Challenge
A key moment in the growing debate occurred when a user on X noted that the teams involved in the lawsuit had clearly outlined their demands, directly countering a segment of McGee’s article that questioned whether they knew what outcome they sought. Denny Hamlin responded to this fan’s intervention with a single word—“Exactly”—emphasizing that the plaintiff teams believe their requests have always been clearly stated, in opposition to how some media reports have portrayed the situation.
Anticipation Builds for Landmark Courtroom Showdown
As the trial draws near, anticipation is high throughout the motorsports community. Michael Jordan, Hamlin’s 23XI co-owner, is reportedly expected to attend all days of the trial, a decision attributed to the strategic guidance of attorney Jeffrey Kessler. With both owners intent on actively participating, their visible presence underscores the gravity and stakes of the lawsuit—not just for 23XI Racing and FRM but for NASCAR at large.
The outcome of this court battle could reshape NASCAR’s business dynamics and influence how teams, owners, drivers, and even fans engage with the sport. As the legal proceedings begin on Monday, the focus will remain fixed on how figures like Hamlin, Jordan, and the defending league will present and defend their positions. The high-profile nature of the Denny Hamlin NASCAR lawsuit promises not only courtroom drama but potentially lasting change for America’s top stock car racing series.
Our fans have been brainwashed with their talking points for decades. Narratives pushed by media who are intimidated by them.
Lies are over starting Monday morning.
It’s time for the truth. It’s time for change.— Denny Hamlin (@dennyhamlin) November 28, 2025
“the teams don’t know what they want” they have literally listed what they want 💀 https://t.co/YuJELULX4R pic.twitter.com/hChcNIrSjE
— Toyo (@Toyo3512) November 28, 2025
