NASCAR Hall of Famer Dale Earnhardt Jr. has weighed in on one of the most controversial topics in the sport’s recent history: the federal antitrust lawsuit filed by 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports (FRM) against NASCAR and the France family. In the latest episode of his podcast, Dale Jr. Download, the two-time Busch Series champion offered bold predictions about the potential outcome of the lawsuit, suggesting that while the case could be a costly battle for all involved, he believes both NASCAR and the plaintiffs will emerge relatively unscathed.
The lawsuit, which alleges monopolistic practices by NASCAR, has raised questions about the future of the sport and its business practices. The legal fight stems from the refusal of 23XI Racing and FRM to sign the new 2025 Charter Agreement, leading to their claims of unfair treatment in negotiations with the sanctioning body.
Dale Jr. didn’t shy away from sharing his thoughts on how the lawsuit might end. “Everyone’s said this, it will be interesting how it plays out. I think everyone, it’s gonna cost everybody just a little bit to get through it, but I think NASCAR absolutely survives it. And I feel like, to be quite honest with you, 23XI will come out of it satisfied as well.”
While he acknowledged that the legal proceedings could take a toll on both sides, Earnhardt believes there will be no significant losers in the end. “I don’t know what that looks like, but I don’t believe that there will be any big, big winners. But I don’t think anybody will suffer any major losses in this either. I think it will have to sort itself out, and the right decisions, right results will be given.”
Earnhardt also touched on NASCAR’s CEO Jim France and his approach to leadership. Comparing France to his predecessors, Dale Jr. described him as more approachable but still determined to maintain the sport’s traditions. “Jim is a kind man, he’s easy to talk to, approachable. He does have a lot of the same characteristics in terms of how he thinks this business should run that his dad and brother had, but he’s a bit softer. … Jim wants to maintain what he believes the vision and integrity of the sport is and always has been.”
Junior’s comments suggest that while France may be softer in his approach, he is committed to defending NASCAR’s integrity in this legal fight. Whether that means maintaining the current structure or making concessions, Earnhardt believes France won’t let things change too quickly.
As the legal battle unfolds, it remains to be seen how much the lawsuit will impact the sport. With Dale Jr. predicting that both sides will come out of it with at least some satisfaction, it seems that NASCAR and the teams involved may find a resolution that allows the sport to continue moving forward.
