he ongoing legal dispute between NASCAR and two Cup Series teams—23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports (FRM)—has reached a significant new development. Recent reports indicate that both 23XI and FRM have been given a hearing date to address and potentially dismiss NASCAR’s counterclaim, which alleges that the teams colluded to boycott certain NASCAR events.

Court documents reveal that Curtis Polk, business partner to NBA legend and 23XI Racing co-owner Michael Jordan, is at the center of these allegations. According to the documents, Polk allegedly attempted to influence NASCAR’s decision-making process in a way that would benefit both 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports ahead of the 2025 Cup Series season. The claim asserts that Polk pressured NASCAR to make choices favorable to these teams, raising concerns about possible manipulation and collusion within the sport.

Renowned FOX Sports journalist Bob Pockrass reported that a hearing has now been scheduled to address motions by 23XI and FRM to dismiss NASCAR’s counterclaim. The hearing will also consider whether other chartered teams should be added to the case, due to the potential impact the outcome could have on them. The hearing is set for June 12.

“A hearing date on 23XI/Front Row motions to dismiss NASCAR’s counterclaim and on whether the other chartered teams should be added to the case (because of potential impact to them) is scheduled for June 12,” Pockrass wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

This legal battle dates back to just before the start of the 2024 playoffs, when NASCAR issued a deadline for all teams to sign a new charter agreement. While most teams agreed to the terms, 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports refused, arguing that the deal was unfair. Their refusal triggered a legal confrontation over what the teams allege are NASCAR’s monopolistic practices. While NASCAR has stood firm on its position, 23XI and FRM have continued to voice their concerns about fairness and competition within the sport.

Denny Hamlin, co-owner of 23XI Racing and driver of the #11 car for Joe Gibbs Racing, recently spoke about the risks he is taking by challenging NASCAR in court. Hamlin highlighted the personal and professional stakes involved, noting that he is risking his finances and reputation for what he believes is the greater good of the sport.

“I’m risking a lot,” Hamlin admitted in an interview with Sports Tak. “Financially. I’m putting my reputation on the line. It’s all a risk, but it’s all for the better good.”

Despite the off-track distractions, Hamlin’s 2025 Cup Series season has been impressive so far. He has secured two race wins in the first 13 races and, despite suffering two DNFs (Did Not Finish), is currently ranked 6th in the overall driver standings.

The next Cup Series race will take place at Nashville Superspeedway on Sunday, June 1, at 7 PM Eastern. Fans can watch the Cracker Barrel 400 exclusively on Amazon Prime Video, as well as listen via Performance Racing Network and SiriusXM.