Michael Jordan, the basketball icon whose previous sports executive endeavours fell short of his legendary playing career, has found a new arena for success: NASCAR. His 23XI Racing team, co-owned with Denny Hamlin, has stormed to the top of the Cup series standings in 2026, reshaping the legacy of the 63-year-old.
Tyler Reddick, driver of the No 45 car, has won four of the first six races, including a dramatic last-lap victory at the Daytona 500. Bubba Wallace in the No 23 car has finished no worse than 11th through five events. The team’s hot start has placed Jordan atop the owner leaderboard alongside established powerhouses like Roger Penske, Rick Hendrick and Joe Gibbs.
Jordan, who sold his majority stake in the Charlotte Hornets in 2023 for $3bn, told CBS’s Gayle King: “I’m cursed with this competitive gene… It keeps me aggressively thinking positively.” He has been a visible presence at races, watching from the pit wall and celebrating in victory lane, while making himself available for interviews.
23XI’s success is remarkable for a team in only its sixth year, but it nearly ended before it truly began. In October 2025, 23XI broke ranks with other Cup teams to file an antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR, objecting to the France family’s control and revenue distribution. The case highlights Jordan’s willingness to challenge the sport’s established order.
Dave Rogers, 23XI’s senior director of competition, likened Jordan’s leadership style to basketball: “He emphasises doing what you need to do to make sure you’re performing at your highest level and taking that game-winning shot. And if you make it, great. And if you don’t, move on.” The team heads into this Sunday’s race at Bristol Motor Speedway with momentum on its side.
