In today’s NASCAR, teams need charters to compete””essentially a golden ticket guaranteeing entry into races and a share of the sport’s revenue. But while most teams have signed the dotted line, 23XI Racing, co-owned by Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin, has taken a bold stand and missed the deadline to agree to the new charter terms. This wasn’t a case of oversight or mismanagement; it was a deliberate decision made by two of the sport’s most prominent figures. The reason behind 23XI Racing’s opposition to the new charter agreement remains shrouded in mystery, as neither the team nor NASCAR has offered a clear explanation. Since its introduction in 2016, the charter system has been designed to give teams guaranteed entry into races and a slice of the revenue pie. So, why is 23XI resisting? Rumor has it that Jordan and Hamlin feel the negotiation process was rushed and lacked the transparency and input needed from all teams. They’ve hinted that the new terms may favor certain teams more than others, creating an imbalance that doesn’t sit well with them. By holding out, 23XI Racing is making a statement””they want a fair shot for every team, not just a select few. But the clock is ticking. By refusing to sign the new charter agreement, 23XI Racing is gambling with its future. As it stands, they face the uncertain prospect of whether they’ll be able to compete next year at all. With a team that’s grown rapidly in stature, Jordan and Hamlin are taking a big risk

Another fan put up a comment saying “common Steve L.” The whole “L” thing is internet slang for a ‘loss’, and this fan is handing one to Steve Phelps. They’re disappointed that he’s not stepping up to the plate and making a statement. Fans expect leaders to be transparent, especially when things get messy, and Phelps staying mum is just not cutting it for them. “Of course he would LOL,” added another fan. This fan is hardly surprised by Phelps keeping quiet””it’s exactly what they expected. The “LOL” is dripping with sarcasm, like they’re almost laughing at how predictable it is. To them, it’s typical NASCAR: dodge the tough questions and keep things under wraps. This kind of response just adds to the frustration because it feels like the leadership is dodging accountability rather than facing issues head-on. “Can we talk about the stage cautions?! It’s embarrassing for our sport!” This comment jumps to another gripe that’s been bugging fans””those stage cautions. They see it as just one more example of NASCAR making decisions that hurt the sport’s integrity. The word “embarrassing” really shows how disappointed they are in how things are being run, and Phelps not addressing the charter issue just feels like more of the same old problems to them. With that said, where do you stand on 23XI Racing going against the charter system, which most other teams have accepted? Do you think their move is justified?