Denny Hamlin Reacts To Major Ruling In The 23XI Lawsuit
12/23/2024 02:46 PM
Denny Hamlin appeared to respond to the latest development in 23XI Racing's legal battle with NASCAR.
23XI Racing, owned by Hamlin and NBA legend Michael Jordan, and Front Row filed a lawsuit against NASCAR after refusing to sign a charter agreement in September. Last Wednesday, a judge granted each team a preliminary injunction allowing them to compete as chartered teams in 2025. Meanwhile, the injunction also required NASCAR to approve each team's charter purchases of Stewart Haas Racing, which closed following the 2024 Cup Series season.
NASCAR filed an appeal asking for a delay. On Monday, U.S. District Judge Kenneth D. Bell denied NASCAR's partial notion for a stay.
However, Sportico legal expert Michael McCann explained that the ruling only forces NASCAR to immediately approve SHR's charter transfers to Front Row. Per Racer's Kelly Crandall, 23XI Racing must request the same relief since the original court filing didn't include their charter acquisition.
Monday's ruling nevertheless represented another legal victory for the teams against NASCAR. Around the time news surfaced of this development, Hamlin seemed to celebrate with some holiday cheer.
The 23XI co-owner posted a GIF of sitcom character Al Bundy wearing a Santa Claus costume and raising a glass of beer.
"Merry Christmas fellas," the GIF's caption read.
The original lawsuit called NASCAR's owners "monopolistic bullies" for presenting a charter renewal offer with no leeway for negotiation. Last week, Front Row and 23XI Racing released a statement after Judge Bell's preliminary injunction.
"We are confident in the strength of our case and will continue to fight so that racing can thrive and become a more competitive and fair sport in ways that benefit teams, drivers, sponsors, and, most importantly, our fans."
The case is scheduled to go to trial in December 2025. A hearing for NASCAR's motion to dismiss the lawsuit is set for Jan. 8.
Related: Bubba Wallace Sent Warning To 23XI Racing About 2025
