Denny Hamlin demands media apology after a high-profile legal dispute between 23XI Racing, FRM, and NASCAR concluded with a settlement, marking a significant moment for the teams and the sport. As both sides look to move forward, Hamlin has voiced concerns regarding the media’s portrayal of his team during the lawsuit, insisting public apologies are owed.
Resolution of Prolonged Legal Battle in NASCAR
After battling in court and the public sphere for more than a year, NASCAR and the organizations 23XI Racing and FRM have reached an agreement. With their primary objectives met, both parties indicated intentions to focus on the progression of the sport and set aside the disputes that had drawn widespread attention.
Despite the settlement resolving matters formally, not all individuals involved have moved on from the contentious comments and opinions that circulated during the litigation. Denny Hamlin, recognized for both his competitive spirit and willingness to speak out, has been especially vocal about perceived slights against his team and demanded accountability from the NASCAR media.
Hamlin’s Public Call for Accountability from Media
In the aftermath of the lawsuit’s conclusion, Hamlin has reiterated his passion for racing but also his dissatisfaction with the way 23XI Racing and its associate, FRM, were depicted amid the legal strife. On social media, the No. 11 driver addressed criticisms that appeared on NASCAR’s SiriusXM Radio, directly calling out the hosts and producers for their remarks.
“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?” — Denny Hamlin (@dennyhamlin), December 16, 2025
The tweet, directed publicly at the SiriusXM NASCAR Radio team after a segment was promoted by host Larry McReynolds, demanded that the show’s hosts reconsider their prior statements about Hamlin’s team. Hamlin’s pointed demand for an on-air apology reignited discussions about how media commentary can affect reputations, especially when legal outcomes are pending.
Known for being frank, Hamlin leveraged his public platform to address comments he felt undermined the legitimacy and standing of his organization in NASCAR. He specifically referenced the show’s previous conversations, which cast doubts on the motives and credibility of his team and its partners.
Scrutiny of SiriusXM Radio Statements
During the legal drama, show hosts at SiriusXM NASCAR Radio had openly questioned the intentions and qualifications of 23XI Racing and FRM. Notably, these hosts challenged the teams’ efforts to influence foundational aspects of NASCAR governance. They also implied skepticism regarding whether 23XI Racing, co-owned by Hamlin and basketball star Michael Jordan, had earned the stature to push for changes. Similarly, doubts were voiced about FRM’s position within the sport.
Another point raised was that, unlike Hamlin’s partnership, thirteen other NASCAR teams had reportedly signed the charter agreement without issue, implicitly dismissing Hamlin and FRM’s grievances as outliers. These public remarks became the focal point of Hamlin’s criticism after the lawsuit resolved in his teams’ favor.
“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.” — Denny Hamlin (@dennyhamlin), December 16, 2025
Hamlin’s social media statements underscored his displeasure and referenced specific critiques he and his teams endured while the case remained unresolved. His willingness to call out the media’s tone and language further demonstrates the emotional toll the dispute appears to have taken on all involved.
The reactions from NASCAR fans were swift, with many supporting Hamlin’s stance and expressing relief to see the outspoken driver re-emerge in public discourse after a period of reduced visibility. Comments online referenced both the stress Hamlin has faced—personally and professionally—and his determination to see fair representation of his teams in media narratives.
Looking Forward: Implications for Drivers, Teams, and Media Relations
Though Hamlin’s request for an apology remains unresolved, he acknowledged Larry McReynolds’ contributions to the sport during discussions with fans, indicating hope for a more balanced and fact-driven approach to coverage in the future as all information becomes public.
This episode underlines ongoing friction between high-profile sports figures and the media, especially when sensitive issues intersect with public opinion and reputational risk. The willingness of prominent personalities such as Denny Hamlin to challenge the coverage they receive may shape the tone of future reporting surrounding NASCAR’s most publicized events. As teams, drivers, and organizers set their sights on upcoming competitions, the aftermath of this dispute suggests that transparency, accuracy, and respect will be imperative as all sides continue their work both on and off the track.
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?
— Denny Hamlin (@dennyhamlin) December 16, 2025
Well because I believe that once the actual facts and documents were released it was contradictory to the narrative that was being pushed. Larry is a very hard working analyst. Hopefully he took the time to analyze the situation post settlement and revise his thoughts.
— Denny Hamlin (@dennyhamlin) December 16, 2025
