Rick Hendrick NASCAR settlement has been officially endorsed by top team owners after the resolution of the high-profile antitrust lawsuit involving 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports. Announced just ahead of the 2026 season and the Daytona 500 in February, the settlement introduces permanent charters for all teams, a move intended to ensure lasting stability and spur collaboration throughout the sport’s organizations.
The conclusion of the lawsuit, which began in October 2024, follows nine days of federal trial and subsequent mediation in North Carolina. With the case now resolved, NASCAR leaders and stakeholders are realigning their attention towards growth, revitalized relationships, and building momentum ahead of the upcoming season.
Industry Leaders Welcome Agreement as Milestone Moment
Rick Hendrick characterized the settlement as a critically timed boost to the sport, emphasizing the impact on fans and industry professionals alike.
“Millions of loyal NASCAR fans and thousands of hardworking people rely on our industry, and today’s resolution allows all of us to focus on what truly matters, the future of our sport,”
Hendrick stated. He further expressed optimism that NASCAR can now
“strengthen our relationships and recommit ourselves to building a collaborative and prosperous future for all stakeholders.”
Roger Penske also voiced strong support for the settlement’s outcome.
“Today’s settlement is tremendous news for the industry, Penske said.”
Penske emphasized unity, noting that the new agreement
“provides the entire industry with a platform that strengthens our business and allows us to continue to entertain our millions of passionate fans in a unified way.”
Michael Jordan, co-owner of 23XI Racing, highlighted the motivation behind taking legal action:
“From the beginning, this lawsuit was about progress… With a foundation to build equity and invest in the future, we now have the chance to grow together. Hamlin added that they fought for a stronger and more sustainable future for everyone in the industry.”
Meanwhile, Bob Jenkins of Front Row Motorsports shared his confidence in the path ahead:
“Today gives me real confidence in where we’re headed… I’m excited for the road ahead.”
Curtis Polk, part of the negotiating group, commended the settlement’s results in meeting long-term goals centered on fairness and stability.
Details Behind the Lawsuit and Charter Changes
The legal challenge began as 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports raised concerns about NASCAR’s charter system and revenue-sharing plan, arguing they restricted fair play and limited team expansion. NASCAR rejected these assertions, claiming that the charters, active since 2016, were voluntary and had made organizations more robust. The dispute reached a federal courtroom in North Carolina on December 1, 2025, prompting a nine-day trial before all sides agreed to mediation.
Central to the agreement is the update of all team charters, which now gain permanent (“evergreen”) status provided both NASCAR and the teams agree to terms. While the financial aspects of the deal remain undisclosed, leaders emphasized the settlement as a shared pledge.
“Reflects our shared commitment to maintaining a fair and equitable framework for long-term participation in America’s premier motorsport,”
read the joint statement from NASCAR, 23XI Racing, and Front Row Motorsports. NASCAR Chairman Jim France underlined the charter system’s vital role, expressing confidence that the revised terms will strengthen both teams and the fan experience.
Implications: A Stronger, More Unified Future for the Sport
The Rick Hendrick NASCAR settlement removes uncertainties surrounding future team participation as preparations for the 2026 season accelerate. By solidifying team charters, the agreement helps attract new investment and gives team owners greater assurance to plan over multiple seasons. Industry analysts have observed that NASCAR’s recent trajectory—including successful media agreements, a rise in global visibility, and broader team ownership—has already generated positive momentum.
With the lawsuit officially behind them, sport leaders, including Rick Hendrick, Michael Jordan, and Roger Penske, are now advancing efforts to elevate fan experiences, invest in next-generation car technologies, and forge powerful business partnerships. Heading into the new season, NASCAR benefits from clarified rules and a shared direction, making the industry stronger, more resilient, and poised for continued growth across America and beyond.
#NASCAR… Statement from Rick Hendrick of @TeamHendrick regarding today's settlement agreement between NASCAR and 23XI & FRM. pic.twitter.com/GwLAEBIiIl
— Joseph Srigley (@joe_srigley) December 11, 2025
