In a passionate defense of his business partner, Denny Hamlin responded forcefully to recent claims that NBA Hall of Famer Michael Jordan “does nothing for the sport” of NASCAR. The comments, revealed by Hamlin on his “Actions Detrimental” podcast, surfaced during a meeting at Daytona, sparking intense debate within the racing community about Jordan’s significant contributions—both visible and behind the scenes. This controversy centers on Hamlin’s firm stance that Michael Jordan’s presence, star appeal, and actions have transformed the landscape for teams, sponsors, and fans in unprecedented ways, making the focus keyword, Denny Hamlin on Michael Jordan, a central topic of conversation this season.
Michael Jordan’s Lasting Mark as 23XI Racing’s Co-Owner
Michael Jordan, co-owner of 23XI Racing alongside Denny Hamlin, has played a vital role in reshaping NASCAR’s modern era. By fielding the #23 driven by Bubba Wallace, the #45 by Tyler Reddick, and the #35 piloted by Riley Herbst, 23XI Racing quickly established itself as a competitive force. Jordan’s immense celebrity status and marketing prowess attracted headline sponsors like McDonald’s, DraftKings, Xfinity, and Monster Energy, which provided a crucial financial foundation for team growth. Celebrity partnerships even extended to brands such as Eric Church’s Chief’s bar in Nashville. Bubba Wallace’s first Cup Series win with 23XI Racing underscored how Jordan’s engagement rejuvenated both the team and the series as a whole.
Off the track, Jordan’s presence has amplified media attention, interview opportunities, and fan engagement, making every 23XI Racing appearance an event watched beyond traditional NASCAR spectators. His constant presence in pit road, interviews on national broadcasts, and emotional celebrations alongside drivers like Reddick showcased the global influence of a figure with mainstream recognition far surpassing that of most in the sport.
A Pivotal Legal Stand Against NASCAR’s Charter System
Perhaps Michael Jordan’s most profound contribution to NASCAR came during last year’s conflict over the charter system. The 2024 charter agreement, which teams viewed as unsatisfactory due to its seven-year expiration and risk to their long-term investments, sparked substantial unrest. Unlike most teams who reluctantly signed under pressure, only Jordan’s 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports refused, taking the bold step of filing a high-profile antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR.
The legal challenge asserted that NASCAR’s practices restricted competition and disadvantaged teams. As court proceedings revealed confidential communications, NASCAR’s position weakened. Just eight days into the trial, the governing body faced mounting public pressure as well as setbacks in the courtroom.
The result was a landmark settlement: NASCAR agreed to grant teams permanent charters, increase their share of revenue, and provide a larger voice in the organization’s governance. It was a historic win for all teams and only became a reality due to Jordan’s willingness to risk resources and reputation, a move very few other owners could have afforded or would have dared attempt.
The Power of Jordan’s Presence and Image
Demonstrating his personal commitment, Michael Jordan attended multiple race events in 2026, including the season-opening Daytona 500, supporting his drivers and engaging directly with fans. Not only did the team enjoy immediate racing success—Tyler Reddick won the season’s first two contests, and Wallace also started strong—but Jordan’s highly public celebrations in Victory Lane became iconic moments for the sport.
A particularly notable scene occurred after the Daytona 500, when Michael Jordan was photographed embracing NASCAR CEO Jim France in Victory Lane, only months removed from their opposing sides in court. This powerful image of reconciliation resonated throughout the racing world, symbolizing a new chapter for NASCAR.
“Michael Jordan and Jim France embrace in Victory Lane of the #Daytona500.
A bit surreal to think about, a few months removed from the trial. pic.twitter.com/ZxVj3kFiGo
— Alan Cavanna (@AlanCavanna) February 15, 2026”
Jordan’s visibility attracts a wider audience and helps rebrand NASCAR, countering outdated perceptions and driving the type of crossover appeal that most racing series crave. His background as a lifelong fan also reinforces genuine dedication to the sport, cultivating goodwill among traditionalists and newcomers alike.
Speculation and Finger-Pointing After the Controversial Comment
The now-infamous accusation—that Michael Jordan “does nothing for NASCAR”—emerged during a private meeting at Daytona attended by several prominent industry figures. Denny Hamlin, co-owner of 23XI Racing, recounted the remarks on his podcast, emphasizing both the shock and the harm in minimizing Jordan’s influence.
“There was someone that we had a meeting with in Daytona that said Michael Jordan does nothing for the sport. And he is a prominent figure in the sport.”
Hamlin hinted at the identity of the critic, stating the person in question was a man with a podcast—a clue that quickly led the racing community into speculation mode online. Dale Earnhardt Jr., himself a revered figure with a popular podcast, was ruled out by fans who highlighted his previous praise of Jordan’s impact. Attention then turned to Kevin Harvick, a retired champion and broadcaster with his “Happy Hour” podcast, but evidence supporting his involvement was lacking.
Another rumored source was Mike Forde, NASCAR Director of Race Communications and host of the “Hauler Talk” podcast. Forde responded swiftly to the rumor, denying any involvement.
“It was not me. I was not in that meeting, and I didn’t say anything about Michael Jordan to Denny Hamlin. I’m flattered. I’m flattered people think I’m prominent enough … first of all, if it was me, I can promise you that Denny Hamlin would have used my name.”
“Amanda Ellis brings up Denny Hamlin’s comments about the meeting in Daytona, where someone said Michael Jordan does nothing for NASCAR. She says that Reddit believes it was Mike Forde.
Forde: “It was not me. I was not in that meeting, and I didn’t say anything about Michael…” — Kelly Crandall (@KellyCrandall) February 25, 2026″
Larry McReynolds, FOX analyst and longtime figure in NASCAR, became another focus due to his critical stance on the 23XI Racing lawsuit and reservations about newcomers’ roles in the sport. McReynolds, a vocal supporter of NASCAR’s leadership, has opposed disruptions he perceives as coming from “outsiders,” leading some to suspect his involvement, though there is no confirmed evidence.
The Larger Meaning of Jordan’s Contributions for NASCAR’s Future
Beyond adding competitiveness to the grid, securing top sponsorships, or shaking up the sport’s power structure, Michael Jordan’s participation offers NASCAR something few other owners can: mainstream visibility and transformational leadership. As an easily recognizable sports icon, Jordan opens doors to fans and business relationships previously inaccessible to the stock car world. The very notion of diminishing his contributions stands at odds with the larger interests of NASCAR and undermines the work done to modernize its image.
Hamlin’s public defense and the subsequent debate underscore how essential it is for NASCAR’s stakeholders to embrace figures who can help evolve and sustain the sport. As the person behind the focus keyword, Denny Hamlin on Michael Jordan, makes clear, recognizing, rather than dismissing, Jordan’s wide-ranging impact is crucial if NASCAR hopes to remain competitive and relevant on the national stage.
With 23XI Racing continuing to outperform established teams and Jordan’s leadership igniting conversations about race, business, and the future of motorsports, there is little doubt that questions surrounding his value will not fade quickly. Who made the controversial claim—and why—may ultimately become less significant than the undeniable proof Michael Jordan brings both substance and visibility to NASCAR’s present and future.
Michael Jordan and Jim France embrace in Victory Lane of the #Daytona500.
A bit surreal to think about, a few months removed from the trial. pic.twitter.com/ZxVj3kFiGo
— Alan Cavanna (@AlanCavanna) February 15, 2026
Amanda Ellis brings up Denny Hamlin's comments about the meeting in Daytona, where someone said Michael Jordan does nothing for NASCAR. She says that Reddit believes it was Mike Forde.
Forde: "It was not me. I was not in that meeting, and I didn't say anything about Michael…
— Kelly Crandall (@KellyCrandall) February 25, 2026
