Kenny Wallace calls out NASCAR media for remaining quiet as the motorsport world focuses on the unfolding anti-trust lawsuit in North Carolina. On December 1, Wallace publicly questioned why well-known broadcasters Dave Moody and Larry McReynolds have largely ignored the legal battle between 23XI Racing, Front Row Motorsports, and NASCAR’s owners, as Denny Hamlin’s testimony takes center stage.
NASCAR’s Lawsuit Grips the Community While Some Remain Silent
The high-profile anti-trust case has held NASCAR’s attention, with teams 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports accusing the series’ owners of monopolistic practices. The proceedings, which recently wrapped their second day, were marked by an emotional turn as Denny Hamlin, driver for Joe Gibbs Racing, shared impactful testimony regarding his experiences in the sport.
Yet, within this climate of intense scrutiny, notable NASCAR commentators Dave Moody and Larry McReynolds have kept quiet about the ongoing legal developments. Kenny Wallace, a seasoned former driver and media figure, addressed their silence directly on his YouTube platform, expressing concern about the lack of attention on the issue from prominent voices deeply tied to the NASCAR community.
“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…Do they act like it’s not happening? Can they lie to themselves? I mean this in a loving, caring way.” — Kenny Wallace said via his YouTube channel.
Wallace suggested that the absence of coverage from Moody and McReynolds, both associated with MRN and respected for their running commentary on NASCAR matters, may stem from their close ties to the organization. He noted their prior critical stances toward Hamlin and skepticism regarding the lawsuit’s significance.
“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?” — Kenny Wallace added.
Wallace’s frustration also addresses a broader trend in racing media, where, according to him, influential platforms occasionally sidestep controversy in favor of routine coverage, even as major events shake the foundations of the sport.
Denny Hamlin Highlights NASCAR’s Message Management During Lawsuit Testimony
On the witness stand, Denny Hamlin offered more than personal accounts—he revealed internal pressures within NASCAR that shape how drivers speak publicly. Hamlin, a longtime Joe Gibbs Racing competitor, discussed financial matters and the contentious charter agreement, but his insights into media control captured significant attention during his testimony.
He described the reality of sharing only positive perspectives in public forums and on his podcast, attributing this pattern to organizational expectations from NASCAR itself.
“Because if I say anything bad, I get a lashing from NASCAR. So, publicly, it’s all sunshine and rainbows… My job is to take the talking points NASCAR says to [me] and say them publicly. If [I say] anything bad, [I get] a phone call from NASCAR.” — Denny Hamlin said as reported by Joseph Srigley of Racing America.
Hamlin’s remarks underscored a culture where drivers are encouraged to echo the sanctioned narratives of the organization, underlining the challenges in conveying critical or personal viewpoints without risking professional backlash.
Media Self-Censorship and Fan Reactions Fuel Tensions
The scrutiny on media coverage has ignited debates among fans and industry insiders. Wallace’s pointed questions about selective silence coincide with Hamlin’s claims regarding narrative control, fueling skepticism about the independence of NASCAR media outlets. These revelations follow Hamlin’s previous public dispute with ESPN over alleged bias in covering the sport’s narrative, further intensifying the discussion around transparency and authenticity.
As the lawsuit continues, the motorsport community braces for additional disclosures and debates, with observers watching to see whether prominent commentators will address the complex issues shaping NASCAR’s present and future. Wallace’s willingness to challenge the status quo, coupled with Hamlin’s candid testimony, signals a moment of reckoning for NASCAR’s public image and its relationship with both media personalities and its passionate fanbase.
#NASCAR's council then asked Hamlin about his appearance on the Kenny Wallace Podcast, where he mentioned that the NextGen car was a net-positive about the sport — and didn't say anything negative about the racecar.
🗨️ "Because if I say anything bad, I get a lashing from…
— Joseph Srigley (@joe_srigley) December 2, 2025
