Tyler Reddick‘s Daytona 500 win for 23XI Racing on Sunday marked a historic triumph for the team and its co-owner Michael Jordan, but celebrations were quickly overshadowed by online controversy regarding Jordan’s interaction with Reddick’s young son, Beau. Addressing the incident during an appearance on Stephen A. Smith’s SiriusXM show, Reddick firmly defended both his team and his family, calling the backlash unfounded and emphasizing how significant the moment was for everyone involved.
23XI Racing’s Unforgettable Daytona 500 Victory and Viral Controversy
The No. 45 Toyota, driven by Tyler Reddick, made history with the 2026 Daytona 500 win, providing redemption for Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing following a challenging 2025 season. As celebrations took over the victory lane, a video capturing NBA legend Michael Jordan interacting with Beau Reddick went viral, sparking debate and criticism on social media. Some suggested Jordan behaved inappropriately with the young boy, fanning controversy amid what should have been a joyous occasion for the team and family.
Tyler Reddick Addresses Public Criticism
Tyler Reddick responded to the uproar during his segment on Stephen A. Smith’s SiriusXM show, expressing disappointment with the backlash and emphasizing his close relationship with the Jordan family developed through his tenure at 23XI Racing. Reddick explained that, from his point of view, nothing unusual occurred during the victory lane celebrations and the event was blown out of proportion online.
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 said via Stephen A. Smith’s SiriusXM show.
He dismissed the claims as being misinterpretations, pointing out that the Reddick and Jordan families have shared similar celebratory moments publicly in the past. Reddick underscored the happiness and unity that defined the victory lane scene, asserting that the backlash was unwarranted and manufactured.
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 how happy everybody was celebrating together. So, that’s where I’m at with it.
Tyler Reddick added.
The Significance of Racing for Michael Jordan and 23XI
Beyond the immediate controversy, Tyler Reddick spoke passionately about the opportunity to race for Michael Jordan and co-owner Denny Hamlin. Reflecting on his journey with the team, Reddick described the honor and responsibility he feels as the chosen driver for the No. 45 car, especially having the trust of two renowned figures from both basketball and racing.
You know, three or four years when I was working on where am I gonna go in the future, to have someone like Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin say, ‘You’re the guy we want more than anyone else in the field to drive our No. 45 car.’ I mean, to have someone like the driver Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan, who has accomplished everything that he has in his career and his life… to have those words said about you by those two people is stuff you never dream to become reality.
Tyler Reddick said.
The admiration Reddick has for the team’s leadership fuels his drive to excel. With 23XI Racing investing heavily in Reddick’s future and aiming to position the No. 45 car among NASCAR’s elite, he is motivated to continue delivering standout performances.
Looking Ahead for 23XI Racing and Tyler Reddick
Tyler Reddick’s Daytona 500 victory not only marks a milestone in his career but also sets a new chapter for Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing as they aspire to join the ranks of NASCAR’s top teams. While the team faced unwarranted social media scrutiny, Reddick’s statements make clear that both families share mutual respect and happy memories off the track. As 23XI Racing continues to build its legacy with Reddick behind the wheel, the focus remains on championship ambitions and the pursuit of further triumphs under the leadership of Jordan and Hamlin.
NEW: NASCAR star Tyler Reddick responds following Michael Jordan's "interaction" with his 6-year-old son after Reddick's Daytona 500 win.
The comments from Reddick came on Stephen A. Smith's SiriusXM show.
"From my perspective, I've gotten to know Michael and his… pic.twitter.com/S2eL09y3Rk
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) February 19, 2026
