Tyler Reddick, fresh off his landmark win at the Daytona 500, addressed the public scrutiny surrounding 23XI Racing co-owner Michael Jordan’s interaction with Reddick’s son. During an appearance on the Stephen A. Smith Show on SiriusXM Mad Dog Sports Radio, Reddick defended Jordan, emphasizing the significance of the victory and the unity witnessed in the team’s celebrations.
The 2026 Daytona 500, opening the NASCAR Cup Series season at Daytona International Speedway, became memorable not only for Reddick’s dramatic win but also for online controversy. A viral clip emerged showing Michael Jordan interacting with Reddick’s young son, Beau, prompting divided public opinions. While some viewers questioned the NBA legend’s conduct, linking it to broader internet scandals, others, including fans and team insiders, called the incident a non-issue, citing overblown internet speculation.
Reddick Publicly Supports Michael Jordan Amid Social Media Reaction
During his interview, Tyler Reddick spoke at length about his relationship with Michael Jordan and dismissed accusations emerging from internet conversations. He described how, since joining 23XI Racing, he’s developed a deep trust with Jordan and the entire family, underlining the moment’s importance for everyone involved in the team’s success.
“From my perspective, I’ve gotten to know Michael and his family very well over the years I’ve been here with 23XI, and I don’t see what other people see when it comes to this. For me, it’s a huge moment; this is the biggest moment of my career.”
– Tyler Reddick, NASCAR Cup Series driver
He elaborated on how the celebrations in victory lane transcended the controversy, focusing instead on the collective joy shared by team members and both families.
“It’s a huge moment for my family and for his family, and I just put that off to the side and think about the look on (Michael Jordan’s wife) Yvette’s face and the whole family and his whole group when they got to victory lane too, and just how happy everybody was celebrating together. So, that’s where I’m at with it,”
– Tyler Reddick, NASCAR Cup Series driver
Dramatic Finish Leads Reddick to Daytona 500 Glory
The path to victory for Tyler Reddick and 23XI Racing was paved with dramatic moments. Reddick, who finished twentieth in Duel 2 ahead of the main race on February 15, 2026, emerged victorious after strategic teamwork on the track. In the closing stages of the 500-mile race, Reddick executed a last-lap maneuver with the crucial aid of teammate Riley Herbst, propelling the #45 Toyota Camry XSE into first place and securing his first Daytona 500 title.
This win is historic for both Reddick and 23XI Racing, marking their inaugural Daytona 500 triumph. Events late in the race saw Carson Hocevar leading until Zane Smith caused him to lose control, opening the door first for Chase Elliott and, ultimately, for Reddick when Herbst gave a decisive push before crashing into the outside wall. The ensuing chaos allowed Reddick to seize the moment, crossing the finish line during a tumultuous final lap.
Michael Jordan Celebrates Team Achievement and Driver Skill
Michael Jordan, NBA icon and 23XI Racing co-owner, shared his enthusiasm and pride after Reddick’s victory, crediting teamwork and race strategy for their historic achievement.
“I’m ecstatic. I don’t even know what to say. It feels like I won a championship, but until I get my ring, I won’t even know.”
– Michael Jordan, 23XI Racing co-owner
Jordan also highlighted the vital contribution of Riley Herbst in the final moments of the race, acknowledging the depth of team collaboration needed in such high-stakes scenarios.
“I thought Riley did a really unbelievable job by pushing at the end. That shows you what teamwork can really, really do. He won’t get enough credit, but we feel the love. We understand exactly what he did. We just hung in there all day. We had a great strategy by the team, and we gave ourselves a chance at the end.”
– Michael Jordan, 23XI Racing co-owner
Strong Finishes and Team Momentum Carry into the Season
23XI Racing showcased more than just Reddick’s achievement at Daytona International Speedway. Both Bubba Wallace and Riley Herbst finished among the top ten, securing tenth and eighth positions respectively, while Josh Berry and Chase Elliott also figured prominently in the closing order. Additionally, 23XI Racing fielded Corey Heim, the reigning Craftsman Truck Series champion, who finished in twenty-eighth place, demonstrating the organization’s depth and competitive outlook for the new NASCAR Cup Series season.
Looking ahead, 23XI Racing’s victory at the Daytona 500 sets a high standard for the remainder of the season, highlighting the value of teamwork and mutual trust amid the pressures of professional motorsport. Tyler Reddick’s Daytona 500 victory, supported by Michael Jordan’s leadership and a unified team effort, stands as a defining moment for all involved, suggesting further milestones may be within reach in the coming races.
🚨 It Was a Scratch. The Internet Made It a Scandal.
Michael Jordan helped a kid who said he was itchy after getting doused in champagne at Daytona. That’s it.
No conspiracy.
No tie to recently released files.
No hidden agenda.Just MJ pulling a shirt away and scratching a… pic.twitter.com/LCpTiVzL1q
— 🔥 CEO Branding Expert (@Ceo_Branding) February 16, 2026
