CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — On Wednesday, NASCAR Chairman Jim France provided compelling testimony as the last witness for Michael Jordan’s team in the federal antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR. He shared how his late parents’ advice influenced his decision against granting permanent charters in the new revenue-sharing plan.
The trial’s eighth day began with NASCAR attorney Christopher Yates asking the 81-year-old France about his age and hearing aids while detailing his extensive background in the family business, which he had been a part of since high school, after serving in Vietnam.
NASCAR, the foremost motorsports organization in the U.S., was established in 1948 by Bill France Sr. and is still family-owned. France mentioned how his upbringing instilled in him two key principles: his mother taught payment integrity, while his father emphasized reliability.
These values guided France’s opposition to permanent charters in the 2025 revenue-sharing agreement. “The pace of change has been overwhelming, and I can’t foresee a permanent agreement,” he expressed. He directly linked this to his parents’ teachings, stating, “I can’t make a promise I can’t uphold indefinitely.”
This perspective echoed NASCAR Commissioner Steve Phelps’ earlier testimony regarding the hurried agreements presented to teams on September 6, 2024, with a tight deadline for signing. Phelps explained that France had promised to consult Roger Penske before the agreements were finalized, resulting in delays. Charters were sent only after their discussion, close to the deadline.
Only two teams, 23XI Racing, co-owned by basketball icon Jordan and others, decided against signing, opting for litigation instead. Several team owners characterized the situation as an ultimatum from NASCAR, feeling pressured to sign under duress.
France’s testimony was notably clearer than the previous day, in which he struggled to recall details, even when confronted with substantial financial evidence. He owns 54% of NASCAR and, despite a revenue increase being offered, it did not meet team requests, lacking critical governance and charter assurances. In the ongoing case, the jury must determine whether NASCAR has violated antitrust regulations and what damages, estimated at $364.7 million, may be owed.
What Lies Ahead?
The NASCAR defense is expected to wrap up by Friday. If the organization loses, U.S. District Judge Kenneth Bell could impose changes to the monopoly structure, including potential divestitures. A victory for 23XI and Front Row, however, does not guarantee them the charters they seek, with both teams having stated they could face closure without them.
