23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports Remain Open Teams Following Court Decision
In a pivotal ruling on Wednesday, 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports will remain classified as Open teams through the conclusion of the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season. U.S. District Court Judge Kenneth Bell denied the teams’ request for a preliminary injunction to gain charter status, citing a lack of “irreparable harm.”
The decision comes after the two teams expressed concerns about potential loss of drivers and sponsors without charter privileges. Although NASCAR confirmed it would maintain the status quo regarding charter transfers, the teams sought court intervention to safeguard their competitive standing. Judge Bell noted the absence of immediate harm, stating, “There is no irreparable harm with respect to the loss of ‘Charter rights’ for the remainder of the 2025 Cup Series,” adding that the future of charter allocation would remain uncertain until after trial.
Earlier this year, 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports were initially granted a preliminary injunction but faced setbacks when the U.S. Court of Appeals vacated that order in June. Subsequent attempts for a rehearing and restraining orders were also denied.
Jeffrey Kessler, attorney for the teams, expressed optimism, noting, “Judge Bell has made clear that the status quo is being maintained… ensuring their ability to continue racing through the 2025 season based on NASCAR’s commitments.” He also emphasized the potential for significant changes in NASCAR if the teams prevail in their upcoming trial.
Of the 15 teams in the Cup Series, 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports were the only teams that did not sign the 2025 charter agreement by the September deadline, prompting their joint lawsuit against NASCAR and Jim France over antitrust issues.
The trial is set to commence on December 1.
