NBA Hall of Famer and Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan was one happy man on Sunday afternoon after seeing Tyler Reddick, who drives for Jordan’s 23XI Racing, win the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway.
Reddick actually led only one lap all race long, but it was the most important one: the final lap. So, how did Jordan get involved in the NASCAR racing world?
Michael Jordan and His Involvement in NASCAR Racing
Before talking about Jordan’s start in NASCAR, it’s important to take a minute to point out his recent activity in the sport. Jordan led a December federal antitrust lawsuit that NASCAR settled on the trial’s ninth day. The settlement changed the revenue-sharing model in the United States’ top motorsports series.
During the trial, though, it was revealed just how much money Jordan has poured into his NASCAR teams, not only with 23XI Racing but also after purchasing the Stewart-Haas Racing charter for $28 million.
Veteran NASCAR journalist Bob Pockrass of Fox Sports indicated in December 2025 that “Michael Jordan said he has invested $35-40 million in 23XI and also paid for the $28M for the SHR charter. The role Jordan has isn’t day-to-day but he obviously can help land sponsorships. MJ: ‘More or less a fan and financial support.'”
Additionally, it was reported that Jordan still holds a 60% ownership stake in 23XI Racing, having invested $35-$40 million since becoming a part of the NASCAR world. Jordan co-owns 23XI Racing with NASCAR legend Denny Hamlin. The team name combines Jordan’s No. 23 jersey number with Hamlin’s No. 11 that adorned his NASCAR ride.
Besides Reddick, 23XI Racing also has Bubba Wallace and Riley Herbst on the team. Last season wasn’t one that Reddick wanted to remember. He finished No. 9 in the Cup Series standings with no wins, had seven top-five finishes and 14 top-10 finishes, captured two pole positions, and led just 169 laps.
But Sunday’s victory at the Daytona 500 launches Reddick into a new season filled with hope and aspirations for a Cup Series championship. Jordan probably had a big smile on his face after seeing one of his drivers capture one of the most legendary races in the NASCAR world.
“It feels like I won a championship.” Michael Jordan. Daytona 500 champion. pic.twitter.com/763gfvA0Lp
— FOX: NASCAR (@NASCARONFOX) February 15, 2026
Jordan has made quite an investment in the NASCAR scene. Having Reddick take the checkered flag at Daytona on Sunday afternoon will make that investment feel a whole lot better for one of the NBA’s greatest players.
