On the first day of the highly anticipated antitrust lawsuit trial involving NASCAR, 23XI Racing, and Front Row Motorsports, Kenny Wallace publicly criticized the lack of comprehensive media coverage about the proceedings, highlighting what he sees as a significant silence from those most embedded in NASCAR reporting. Wallace’s frustrations came to light after a courtroom session that included jury selection, opening statements, and initial testimony from Denny Hamlin, with many industry observers considering this lawsuit a crucial turning point for the sport.
During a segment on his YouTube channel, Wallace stressed that, despite global attention on the antitrust lawsuit trial, certain respected names in NASCAR media seemed disengaged or unresponsive to the event. He pointed out that as the motorsports world focused on the legal drama, some veteran broadcasters and platforms with a dedicated NASCAR audience appeared absent in the conversation.
“So, here we are on December 1st, and this time it’s real, and nobody can ignore it. I think of Dave Moody today. I think of Larry McReynolds,”
Kenny Wallace said, expressing his disappointment toward fellow media figures.
“Do they act like it’s not happening? Can they lie to themselves? I mean this in a loving, caring way. They are the NASCAR station. You know, MRN is kind of a serious NASCAR channel. Today’s story on this Monday is only so many days from the Daytona 500. Can you act like today’s a normal day? Can you act like it’s none of our business while it’s worldwide?”
Wallace added, directly calling out leading NASCAR platforms and personalities and referencing familiar names like Dave Moody, Larry McReynolds, and MRN radio.
Wallace voiced disbelief at the media withholding commentary about what he considers a moment of existential threat for NASCAR, speculating that total silence would end if the organization were to lose the lawsuit. Details from the proceedings highlighted just how significant the consequences could be, with Judge Kenneth Bell reportedly stating that an unfavorable verdict against NASCAR might mean ordering the sale of all NASCAR-owned race tracks—or potentially, the entire sanctioning body.
Wallace concluded that such an outcome would force every media member to address the story, regardless of prior reluctance.
Michael Jordan Commands the Spotlight in the Courtroom
Michael Jordan, co-owner of 23XI Racing and legendary former Chicago Bulls player, attracted intense curiosity during the trial‘s opening day. The mere presence of Jordan sent excitement through the courtroom, as jurors and observers vied for an opportunity to witness the global sports icon, and in some cases, to interact with him once their juror duties ended. Jordan’s role goes beyond celebrity intrigue; throughout the trial, attorneys for 23XI Racing repeatedly cited his influence and widespread appeal as essential in keeping the team financially viable under what they argued is a flawed NASCAR business setup.
Both parties—NASCAR and the teams bringing the lawsuit—took seats on opposite sides of the packed courtroom, signaling the deep divisions underscoring the case. Attorneys provided several financial figures, adding context for what is at stake. For instance, 23XI Racing’s Airspeed facility required a $35 million investment, and their technical alliance with Joe Gibbs Racing comes at an $8 million annual cost. The team’s sponsorship haul, which reached $45 million per year from 2022 to 2024, is largely credited to Michael Jordan’s involvement and stature.
As the jury of six, plus three alternates, settled in, attention turned to what promises to be a rigorous trial expected to set precedents in racing business operations. Denny Hamlin’s testimony is scheduled to continue when proceedings resume, and both motorsport insiders and everyday fans are watching how the next chapters unfold. The debate over Kenny Wallace antitrust lawsuit coverage is likely to remain in the spotlight as the case progresses, with broader implications for NASCAR, media independence, and the future of team ownership.
