Michael Jordan appeared in court today as a witness in the high-profile Denny Hamlin NASCAR lawsuit, where 23XI Racing—co-owned by Jordan, Denny Hamlin, and Curtis Polk—is suing NASCAR over antitrust issues. Jordan’s testimony stood out for its mix of lighthearted moments and pointed comments, revealing both his connection to the sport and his views on its leadership.
Michael Jordan Brings Humor and Legacy to the Stand
Taking the witness stand, Michael Jordan established a friendly tone, often drawing laughter from the courtroom with his references to long-time NASCAR favorites. He recalled his early admiration for Richard Petty because his father was a fan, but shared that he later switched to rooting for Cale Yarborough, as summarized in reports.
“Richard Petty was originally Jordan’s favorite driver because that’s who Jordan’s father rooted for, but Jordan eventually transitioned to rooting for Cale Yarborough,”
— Jordan Bianchi of The Athletic
During his testimony, Jordan pointed out that Yarborough was the “original No. 11,” a reference made directly in front of Denny Hamlin, who currently races with that number. Jordan humorously apologized to his business partner as the courtroom looked on, highlighting their friendly rapport even amid tough legal proceedings. This approach helped Jordan come across as both composed and personable throughout the day, with many observers noting that NASCAR’s attorneys seemed less combative with him than with other witnesses, including Hamlin himself.
Testimonies Shed Light on Antitrust Lawsuit and Team Frustrations
Earlier, the jury also heard from Heather Gibbs, who discussed the NASCAR charter system and recounted emotional moments, such as the passing of Coy Gibbs. The legal conflict centers on 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports accusing NASCAR of holding too much control and not offering permanent or evergreen charters that would give teams greater financial security and autonomy.
After Gibbs’s testimony, Jordan helped to lighten the mood—a move that may have been intentional or simply a reflection of his relaxed demeanor. This contrast revealed the complex and often tense atmosphere inside the courtroom as significant issues facing the sport were debated.
Jordan Challenges NASCAR’s Leadership and Safety Policies
The tone shifted during part of Jordan’s testimony when he criticized NASCAR Chairman Jim France, suggesting that the organization does not take enough risks compared to the drivers and teams. Reports detail how Jordan directly addressed concerns about fairness and recognition for those on the racetrack.
“MJ says he wants to push NASCAR to be better. He says the drivers and teams assume most of the risk while NASCAR ‘sits in Florida.’”
— Matt Weaver of Motorsport
“I never saw Jim France drive a car or risk his life,”
Jordan reportedly testified.
“… give a little more credit to those who put their life on the line.”
Jordan also raised the fact that NASCAR drivers lack a formal union, noting the contrast with the NBA, where players benefit from organized representation. He implied that adopting elements of the NBA’s structure could improve conditions for NASCAR participants.
The Road Ahead for Denny Hamlin, Jordan, and NASCAR
Michael Jordan’s involvement has added significant public attention to the Denny Hamlin NASCAR lawsuit, both because of his star status and his willingness to publicly question the policies of NASCAR’s leadership. By making humorous references to his friendship with Denny Hamlin, while also critiquing the sport’s power structure and safety policies, Jordan helped cast a new light on the issues at stake in this antitrust case. As proceedings continue, the entire NASCAR community—from business partners like Curtis Polk to fans watching courtroom developments—will be watching closely to see whether the high-profile testimony of figures like Jordan sways the outcome or prompts changes in how NASCAR operates in the years ahead.
Michael Jordan spent an hour on the witness stand
MJ says he grew up a Richard Petty fan but drifted towards Cale Yarborough, 'the original No. 11, sorry Denny.'
(Laugher)Characterizing his ownership MJ says he is '100 feet up' but he is 'aware of everything that happens at…
— Matt Weaver (@MattWeaverRA) December 5, 2025
