Denny Hamlin, co-owner of 23XI Racing and driver for Joe Gibbs Racing, called out NASCAR media figures for their coverage following the settlement of a high-profile lawsuit involving his team, Front Row Motorsports, and NASCAR. The dispute, which lasted nearly a year, ended with the Cup Series teams regaining their charters and new charter rules being put in place, but Hamlin’s reaction revealed ongoing tensions with the sport’s media and analysts.
After the legal battle concluded, Hamlin used social media to take direct aim at SiriusXM NASCAR Radio’s Channel 90, naming Larry McReynolds and others for the way they reportedly covered the case. Hamlin felt that when the lawsuit was first filed, the media unfairly cast 23XI and FRM in a negative light, characterizing them as problematic rather than as organizations trying to defend their interests.
Hamlin’s Public Request for an Apology
Hamlin’s dissatisfaction became clear when he posted to X, asking if Channel 90 or the analysts who commented critically about 23XI and FRM would apologize now that the case had settled. He specifically called attention to the statements made at the time, which questioned the motives and credibility of the two teams.
“Good morning. Now that the case is settled and the evidence is out will you or anyone on channel 90 be issuing an apology for what you all said about 23XI/FRM when the lawsuit was filed?”
— Hamin, on X
He continued by citing examples of criticism heard during the dispute, referencing industry comments that disparaged his team’s intentions and legitimacy in challenging established norms within the sport.
“I believe it was “how dare them for trying to come in and change the sport. 23XI hasn’t been around long enough and FRM wasn’t good enough”. Also how about “ I dont know what their problem is, 13 other teams signed it”. Just to name a few examples.”
— Hamin, via X
Industry Fallout and Charter System Changes
Although financial terms of the agreement remain undisclosed, the settlement between NASCAR, 23XI Racing, and Front Row Motorsports establishes permanent charter rights for the teams. The introduction of evergreen charters marks a significant change in NASCAR’s business structure, shifting from temporary to perpetual charters for participating teams, which promises improved stability for owners, drivers, and partners alike.
Throughout the dispute, Hamlin and fellow co-owner Michael Jordan maintained firm stances on the necessity of their challenge. Hamlin publicly reflected on his reasons for pursuing the legal fight, linking it directly to the well-being and future prospects of the NASCAR industry as a whole.
“I’ve cared deeply about the sport of NASCAR my entire life. Racing is all I’ve ever known, and this sport shaped who I am. That’s why we were willing to shoulder the challenges that came with taking this stand. We believed it was worth fighting for a stronger and more sustainable future for everyone in the industry. Teams, drivers, and partners will now have the stability and opportunity they deserve. Our commitment to the fans and to the entire NASCAR community has never been stronger.”
— Denny Hamlin
What This Settlement Means for NASCAR’s Future
The conclusion of the legal dispute has been seen as a win for teams like 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports, as well as for sport stakeholders hoping for long-term industry stability. The decision to make charters a permanent fixture is expected to have lasting effects for current and future competitors, providing increased security for drivers and their partners, and influencing how investments are made within the NASCAR ecosystem. While Denny Hamlin’s demand for a public apology has yet to be answered, his outspoken response sheds light on deeper debates within the sport’s community regarding fairness, representation, and the influence of media commentary during high-profile conflicts. As NASCAR All-Star events and other major races approach, the ripple effects of this settlement are likely to shape ongoing discussions about governance, ownership, and the direction of America’s premier motorsport series.
