Denny Hamlin has shared an update on his 23XI Racing team’s lawsuit against NASCAR after achieving his first win of the season in Martinsville. The experienced driver, who co-owns 23XI with Chicago Bulls icon Michael Jordan, led over 2,500 laps during his race at Martinsville, marking his sixth Cup Series victory at that location. Last October, 23XI filed a lawsuit against NASCAR, claiming “monopolistic practices,” particularly regarding the sport’s charter system. A resolution is not expected until at least the end of 2025. In response, NASCAR has filed a countersuit against 23XI and Front Row Motorsports, and both sides have released brief public statements as the legal battle continues.
After his victory last weekend, Hamlin was asked if he enjoys competing against others. He said, “That’s just who I am. If you want to shoot hoops, play pickleball, or golf with me, I need to trash talk. If I can’t do that, I lose my edge and I’m not as good. My friends find it really annoying. For me, that part of competition motivates me and makes me feel great.” When questioned about winning a race while a lawsuit is still ongoing, Hamlin said, “Winning doesn’t really change anything regarding the court matters. All that stuff is dealt with off the track.” “It feels great, doesn’t it? It’s nice to think that there are probably around 50 fans out there who are waiting for me to finish this, and they’re going to support me no matter what. Maybe those are the only 50 in the crowd cheering for me today. I do it for them. They inspire me from within. I love proving people wrong when they say I can’t do something, and then going out there and doing it anyway.”
