If you recall, on March 5th, NASCAR filed a counterclaim accusing 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports of collusion. According to them, the two teams and 23XI co-owner Curtis Polk’s actions were a plot to extract more favorable commercial terms from NASCAR in the Charter negotiations.
And recently, NASCAR had asked the court to allow it to make some amendments to that counterclaim. However, this move was strongly opposed by the Michael Jordan-owned 23XI and FRM.
According to them, this request for an amendment shows weakness in the defendant’s argument. And that it’s only being done to create a distraction in the case an its “monopolistic practices.” However, the court has sided with the racing organization in this one.
NASCAR Finally Gets a Small Win Against 23XI Racing and Co.
Ever since this antitrust lawsuit was filed, things haven’t gone in NASCAR’s favor. First, the court agreed to the teams’ plea for a preliminary injunction. Forcing the defendants to allow them to run as chartered teams. And then NASCAR also had to sign off on them both getting a third charter.
And also, the racing organization’s plea to dismiss this whole thing was denied. But now with the collusion allegation, something seems to be going in their favor. They had asked the court to add additional evidence found in discovery, and the court has allowed it.
Also, NASCAR journalist Bob Pockrass shared this update on X. Where he wrote, “NASCAR to be allowed to amend counterclaim against 23XI/FRM with additional allegations that show 23XI/FRM illegally colluded (with other teams) to get better terms in charter agreement. The judge indicated that claims may be freely amended, and that is why he is allowing it. (1/2)”
And this is not the only development in the case, the court has also asked 23XI Racing, FRM, and NASCAR if they want other teams in the sport to be made a part of the case.
MORE: Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing Bows Out of High-Stakes Legal Fight Against $29.3B F1 Owners
The court’s filing read: “Also, the Court directs the Parties to address in their supplemental filing whether, in light of NASCAR’s allegations and requested relief involving the 2025 Charters, the other chartered race teams not currently involved in this action are required parties pursuant to Rule 19 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure.”
Well, if other teams are made part of this, things could take an interesting turn. But only time will tell in whose favor. However, until that happens, and we hear the court’s ruling on the collusion allegation, the case is set for trial in December 2025.