In December 2024, Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing team announced its departure from the NASCAR Cup Series. This decision was primarily driven by dissatisfaction with recent changes implemented by NASCAR, which the team felt undermined the sport’s integrity and traditions. 
Key issues prompting the departure included:
Revised Schedule: NASCAR’s shift toward a more condensed, commercially driven racing calendar reduced traditional short-track races in favor of road courses and international venues. 23XI Racing believed this move diluted the core appeal of NASCAR.
Changes to Car Specifications: The standardization of cars aimed at reducing costs was seen by the team as diminishing technical innovation and engineering excellence, leading to a more homogenized racing environment.
Increased Commercial Influence: The growing dominance of corporate sponsorships and television rights led to concerns about a disconnect between the sport’s traditional fan base and its current direction.
Michael Jordan expressed his disillusionment, stating that the sport’s essence was being eroded by corporate interests and a shift in direction misaligned with the team’s values.
The departure of 23XI Racing, co-owned by Jordan and driver Denny Hamlin, marked a significant shift in NASCAR’s landscape, highlighting tensions between the sport’s leadership and key stakeholders over its future direction.
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