Mike Forde, NASCAR’s Director of Race Communications and the host of Hauler Talk, has firmly denied involvement after Denny Hamlin’s podcast comment set social media ablaze regarding Michael Jordan’s impact in the sport. This Denny Hamlin podcast controversy unfolded days after Hamlin stated that a prominent NASCAR figure allegedly dismissed Michael Jordan’s contributions, fueling debate and speculation throughout the racing community.
Podcast Comments Spark Intense Reaction in NASCAR Circles
The controversy began when Denny Hamlin claimed on his podcast that an influential person in NASCAR had downplayed Michael Jordan’s significance to the sport. As co-owner of 23XI Racing, alongside Hamlin, Jordan has been central to recent successes on the track, making the claim especially contentious within NASCAR’s closely-knit circles. The statement quickly spread across social media platforms, with many trying to identify the source of the remark.
“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. He also has a podcast.”
– Denny Hamlin, Co-owner & Driver
The idea that Jordan’s influence was being questioned came as a shock to many fans and insiders. Given 23XI Racing’s recent triumphs and Jordan’s visible engagement, the suggestion that he wasn’t contributing to NASCAR’s growth seemed implausible for much of the community.
Mike Forde Publicly Rejects Online Speculation
As discussion intensified online, Mike Forde, who had recently spoken on NASCAR’s playoff developments, addressed the rumors implicating him. Speculation grew after users on platforms like Twitter began linking Forde’s name to Hamlin’s mysterious “prominent figure,” in part because Forde himself is known for his communications work and his own NASCAR podcast.
“It was not me. I was not in that meeting, and I didn’t say anything about Michael Jordan to Denny Hamlin,”
Forde clarified in remarks cited by journalist Kelly Crandall.
“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.”
– Mike Forde, NASCAR Director of Race Communications
Forde’s emphatic denial not only distanced him from the comment but also referenced his prior, sometimes strained, public interactions with Hamlin. Their history includes discord over NASCAR’s charter agreement, in which Hamlin publicly accused Forde of influencing media narratives when 23XI Racing was embroiled in a legal dispute with the league.
“Please give credit to @mforde for helping you write this propaganda piece that they want pushed to switch the narrative,”
Hamlin wrote previously on social media.
Background: Michael Jordan and 23XI Racing’s Recent Prominence
The timing of this tension is notable given 23XI Racing’s significant developments both in the courtroom and on the track. In 2024, Jordan and his team played a pivotal role in an antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR, later settled in December 2025. This settlement reshaped the charter system, granting teams greater long-term security and revising the financial and governance structures within the league.
On the sporting side, 23XI Racing has delivered impressive performances to start the 2026 season. The team claimed victory at the Daytona 500 and followed up with a win at Atlanta, cementing its status as a rising powerhouse. With drivers like Tyler Reddick making headlines, and with Jordan’s hands-on involvement, attention on the team has reached new heights.
Community Voices and NASCAR Leadership Respond
NASCAR President Steve O’Donnell weighed in recently, speaking highly of Jordan’s presence in the garage and his impact on the sport’s expanding audience.
“It’s surreal that he wins the Daytona 500 and then follows it up with back-to-back wins with Tyler Reddick,”
O’Donnell said.
“He’s always there. He’s passionate and has been a fan for life. He helps bring us to new audiences, and we want to be respectful of him and the fact that he’s a true fan. It’s really cool to see.”
– Steve O’Donnell, NASCAR President
The debate surrounding Hamlin’s original remarks continues among fans and journalists, even as Forde’s clear denial narrows the field of possible sources. The intersection of on-track achievement, team ownership, and high-profile personalities like Michael Jordan ensures the topic remains hotly discussed both on social media and within the paddock.
What Comes Next for NASCAR and Its Key Figures
With Michael Jordan and 23XI Racing enjoying a surge of success, attention remains fixed on their performance and influence within NASCAR. Denny Hamlin, as both driver and team co-owner, continues to attract headlines, while Mike Forde’s dismissal of the rumors highlights the scrutiny faced by anyone occupying a prominent role in the sport’s inner circle. As the racing season advances, the themes of legacy, recognition, and influence are likely to stay at the forefront of discussion within NASCAR’s passionate community.
