By Milton Kirby | Charlotte, NC | December 11, 2025

NASCAR, 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports have reached a sweeping settlement that leaders across the sport are calling a turning point. The agreement ends months of tension, restores unity inside the garage, and sets new terms meant to give teams stability for years ahead.

The announcement came Wednesday in a joint statement. All three parties said the resolution protects the future of the sport, strengthens the charter system and positions NASCAR for “meaningful growth” in a more competitive environment.

Officials also stressed that the settlement creates a fairer economic structure. It also keeps the focus on fans as the sport prepares for its 78th season.

A Foundation for Long-Term Growth

As part of the settlement, NASCAR will issue a formal amendment to charter holders. It will include updated terms and a version of “evergreen” charters — a major point of negotiation for teams seeking permanent value and long-term ownership security.

Financial terms remain confidential. But all sides say the result creates a level playing field and enhances the model for team participation.

In their joint statement, NASCAR and the teams said the goal was simple: protect the sport’s foundation while opening doors for new investment, stronger sponsorships, and a more stable competitive field.

They also thanked U.S. District Judge Kenneth Bell and mediator Jeffrey Mishkin, along with the jury involved in the process, acknowledging the complexity of the negotiations.

Michael Jordan: “This was about progress”

Michael Jordan, co-owner of 23XI Racing, said the lawsuit was never about conflict. It was about modernizing a system built for a different era.

“From the beginning, this lawsuit was about progress,” Jordan said. “It was about making sure our sport evolves in a way that supports everyone: teams, drivers, partners, employees and fans.”

Jordan said the new framework gives teams a stronger voice and a real chance to build equity over time.

“I’m excited to watch our teams get back on the track and compete hard in 2026,” he added.

Denny Hamlin: “Worth fighting for”

For Denny Hamlin, the agreement reflects both personal history and professional commitment.

“I’ve cared deeply about the sport of NASCAR my entire life,” Hamlin said. “Racing is all I’ve ever known, and this sport shaped who I am.”

Hamlin said the decision to challenge the existing structure was difficult, but necessary.

“We believed it was worth fighting for a stronger and more sustainable future for everyone in the industry,” he said. “Our commitment to the fans and to the entire NASCAR community has never been stronger.”

Front Row’s Bob Jenkins: “Real confidence in where we’re headed”

Front Row Motorsports owner Bob Jenkins said the settlement strengthens the garage as a whole.

“I love this sport, and it was clear we needed a system that treated our teams, drivers and sponsors fairly,” Jenkins said.

He believes the new terms will finally allow teams to build true long-term value, something owners have sought since the charter system began in 2016.

“I’m excited for the road ahead — for the people in the garage, the folks in the stands and everyone who loves this sport,” he said.

Curtis Polk: “Significant progress toward the Four Pillars”

Curtis Polk, 23XI co-owner and a member of the Team Negotiating Committee, pointed to the framework teams have long advocated for — known as the Four Pillars.

Those pillars include:

• Sustainability for teams
• Equity and long-term value
• Transparency in NASCAR’s financial systems
• Stronger governance and collaboration

Polk said the settlement delivers “significant progress” and aligns NASCAR and teams around shared goals for growth.

Jim France: “A brighter future”

NASCAR CEO and Chairman Jim France said the agreement safeguards what fans value most — competitive racing, strong teams and the stability required to shape the next generation of the sport.

“This outcome gives all parties the flexibility and confidence to continue delivering unforgettable racing moments for our fans,” France said.

He called the charter system “invaluable” since its creation in 2016, and said the new agreement strengthens it even further.

“We are excited to return the collective focus of our sport, teams and race tracks toward an incredible 78th season that begins with the Daytona 500 on Sunday, Feb. 15, 2026,” he added.

A Historic Moment for the Sport

The settlement marks the end of a turbulent chapter but also the beginning of a new era. For the first time, teams appear poised to gain lasting ownership security. NASCAR, in turn, preserves the competitive structure that drives the sport’s popularity.

Both sides now shift their attention back to the track — and to a 2026 season that is already shaping up to be one of the most anticipated in years.

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