Legacy Motor Club Files Lawsuit Against T.J. Puchyr for Tortious Interference
Date: Wednesday, [Insert Date]
Location: [Insert Location]
Legacy Motor Club has formally accused T.J. Puchyr of tortious interference and violations of unfair trade practices in a lawsuit filed on Wednesday. The dispute centers around Puchyr’s dual role as a consultant for both Legacy Motor Club and Rick Ware Racing (RWR), which involved a charter purchase agreement.
In late June, Puchyr disclosed to the Associated Press his intent to buy RWR, which prompted Legacy to claim that he had undermined their deal with RWR. The lawsuit states, “Mr. Puchyr has betrayed Legacy’s trust… .” It further accuses him of openly boasting about actions that Legacy asserts are damaging and unscrupulous.
Key Allegations
1. Tortious Interference with Contract:
Legacy alleges Puchyr exploited his insider knowledge to induce RWR to breach its contract with them, initially envisioned for a charter sale in 2026. RWR contends the sale timeline was understood as 2027, which Legacy disputes, leading to previous litigation against RWR.
2. Tortious Interference with Prospective Economic Advantage:
The complaint claims Legacy was positioned to field a third car in 2026 and 2027 but that Puchyr’s declaration of purchasing RWR disrupted potential sponsorships and business relationships, potentially causing substantial damages.
3. Violations of North Carolina Unfair Trade Practices Act:
The suit asserts that Puchyr concealed his intentions and manipulated his knowledge of Legacy’s agreement with RWR to craft an advantageous proposal for himself, thereby infringing upon Legacy’s contractual rights.
Notable Quotes and Context
The complaint emphasizes Puchyr’s statements, which Legacy sees as disparaging to team owner and seven-time NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson. Puchyr had remarked that Johnson "doesn’t understand the deal we had" and suggested he would be open to discussions to "talk about it like men."
Puchyr, a founder of Spire Motorsports who sold his shares last year, expressed optimism about expanding RWR in the recent AP interview. However, Legacy views this move as opportunistic, especially amid ongoing legal battles over the charter sale.
Additional Context
Legacy Motor Club operates two full-time entries for drivers Erik Jones and John Hunter Nemechek, aiming to expand to a third car contingent on acquiring the charter from RWR. Currently, RWR manages two charters, one leased to RFK Racing and the other running for Cody Ware, with plans to continue leasing into the 2026 season.
The situation continues to evolve as both parties prepare for court proceedings, with substantial implications for their operational futures in NASCAR.
