23XI’s big surge
23XI Racing is owning the early NASCAR narrative — 4 wins in 6 races after the team’s post‑lawsuit settlement, including their first Daytona 500, and Tyler Reddick sits atop the drivers’ standings by 95 points with Bubba Wallace P3 (x.com).
NASCAR, 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports announced a settlement in their federal antitrust case on Dec. 11, 2025 after a nine‑day trial, with the joint statement saying the resolution delivers long‑term stability and growth for teams and the sport. (nascar.com) As part of the post‑trial moves, 23XI formally signed a new charter agreement ahead of the 2026 season on Jan. 31, 2026, securing its spot in the Cup Series moving forward. (motorsportswire.usatoday.com) At Darlington, the No. 45 team pitted before pit road opened to change a battery after an “internal problem in the alternator,” and a subsequent right‑front tire trouble produced a 16.3‑second pit stop that cost the car six positions in the running order. (nascar.com) Crew chief Billy Scott was singled out by team officials for the quick diagnosis and pit‑lane work that steadied the No. 45 after the electrical issue, and co‑owner Michael Jordan publicly praised Scott’s composure in the aftermath. (heavy.com) Denny Hamlin also credited the group effort and race‑day setup, noting the team “had the right answer” for speed at Darlington as 23XI’s engineering and pit operations drew specific praise. (sports.yahoo.com) Separately, Tyler Reddick became the first driver in NASCAR history to win the season’s opening three races, a run noted by ESPN as an unprecedented start to a Cup season. (espn.com) Co‑owner Denny Hamlin can now count four Daytona 500 victories on his résumé — three as a driver (2016, 2019, 2020) and a 2026 victory as an owner — while 23XI co‑owner Michael Jordan recorded his first Daytona 500 triumph as an owner. (toyota.com)
