Michael Jordan rarely faces defeat, but recent rumors suggest Brad Keselowski has achieved the improbable. Sources in the industry indicate that RFK Racing might secure a significant investment in a third charter, potentially expanding their lineup to three full-time cars in the NASCAR Cup Series.
The charter negotiations are at an impasse, with 23XI co-owner Denny Hamlin openly criticizing NASCAR for their handling of the protracted talks. A new report from the Sports Business Journal suggests that RFK Racing could land a sponsorship deal with Kroger, the third-largest retailer in the U.S. If this deal goes through, it would bring Kroger back to Chris Buescher, who previously raced under their banner from 2017 to 2019 with JTG Daugherty Racing.
This development poses a dilemma for 23XI Racing, which had also been looking to grow to three cars. Should RFK Racing’s expansion plans come to fruition, it could force Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan to accept defeat. Among the three charters up for grabs from Stewart-Haas Racing, Front Row Motorsports has already acquired one for an estimated $20-25 million. Trackhouse Racing is also rumored to be close to securing another charter, possibly for Shane van Gisbergen. If RFK Racing’s plans are true, this would likely determine the destination of the remaining charter.
Hamlin has expressed frustration with the charter system, arguing that renting charters makes long-term investment difficult compared to owning them. He has criticized NASCAR’s approach, questioning the logic behind constantly negotiating for something already paid for. With no progress in charter negotiations, 23XI Racing has chosen not to expand, preferring to invest in ownership rather than temporary solutions.
Michael Jordan, reflecting on the situation, has voiced concerns about NASCAR’s charter policies, describing them as a major oversight that could jeopardize the sport’s economic viability. To address these issues, NASCAR teams have engaged attorney Jeffrey Kessler, known for his expertise in sports litigation, signaling a readiness to challenge NASCAR for fair treatment.
