For years, NASCAR struggled to recapture its past glory, with declining TV ratings and a lack of superstar drivers like Dale Earnhardt, Jeff Gordon, and Richard Petty. But the sport got a jolt of mainstream appeal when Michael Jordan—arguably the greatest athlete of all time—entered the world of stock car racing.
Partnering with veteran driver Denny Hamlin, Jordan launched 23XI Racing in 2021, and in just four years, the team has become a legitimate championship contender. However, despite the rapid success, many have questioned Jordan’s true passion for the sport, speculating that his NASCAR venture is just another high-profile business move.
Now, Bubba Wallace has set the record straight, revealing that MJ’s commitment to NASCAR runs much deeper than people think.
From NBA Icon to NASCAR Boss: Jordan’s Rocky Start in Racing
The biggest early criticism against Jordan’s NASCAR ownership was his lack of visibility at the track. While he was heavily involved behind the scenes, he rarely attended races in person—leading many to believe he was merely a silent investor.
But that perception changed in 2024.
Jordan began making regular appearances at races, including personally celebrating Tyler Reddick’s win at Talladega—his first taste of NASCAR victory as a team owner.
And for those questioning whether MJ truly cares about the sport, Wallace made it clear—Jordan isn’t a casual outsider; he’s been a NASCAR fan since childhood.
“I think from a guy of his stature and his standpoint, you would think that he’s just throwing money into something and putting his name on something. But MJ loves NASCAR; he’s been a lifer ever since he was a kid going to races with his family at Talladega, Darlington, Charlotte—you name it.”
Why NASCAR Needs Jordan More Than Ever
For decades, NASCAR was driven by the personalities of its superstar drivers—from The Intimidator, Dale Earnhardt, to the flashy, smooth-talking Jeff Gordon. But in today’s era, no single driver has captured that level of star power, leaving team owners like Jordan and Dale Earnhardt Jr. to take on the role of the sport’s biggest ambassadors.
Jordan’s presence in NASCAR isn’t just about winning races—it’s about bringing in new fans, fresh sponsorships, and raising the profile of the sport.
And he’s not just a figurehead—he pushes 23XI Racing to succeed with the same relentless mentality that made him a six-time NBA champion.
“He’s a guy that looks at everything—the glass is always half full. There’s no excuses really, you make your own luck. Just go out and compete hard and do the best you can, and that’s good.” – Bubba Wallace
Can 23XI Racing Deliver? Bubba Wallace Faces a Defining Year
While 23XI Racing has shown tremendous growth, Bubba Wallace is under serious pressure to perform.
- Wallace went winless in 2024 and failed to reach the playoffs—a massive setback for a driver expected to be a top contender.
- The #23 team underwent major changes, including replacing crew chief Bootie Barker with Charles Denike in an effort to shake things up.
- Meanwhile, Tyler Reddick’s Talladega win proved 23XI Racing is capable of contending, meaning Wallace has no excuses heading into 2025.
With Jordan’s competitive fire driving the team forward, the pressure is on Wallace to step up and deliver.
The Verdict: Jordan Isn’t Leaving NASCAR Anytime Soon
For those who believed Jordan’s NASCAR investment was just another side project, the reality is becoming clearer—he’s here for the long haul.
From his increased presence at races to his relentless push for success, Jordan’s influence on 23XI Racing—and NASCAR as a whole—is undeniable.
The real question now isn’t whether MJ is serious about NASCAR—it’s whether his team can rise to championship level.
With the 2025 season on the horizon, all eyes will be on 23XI Racing—and whether they can turn Jordan’s competitive vision into victory lane domination.
