NASCAR Plans Charter Transfer for 2026 Season Amid Legal Proceedings
NASCAR has filed a notice with the Western District of North Carolina indicating its intent to transfer a charter to an undisclosed entity for the 2026 season. The specifics of the transaction, including whether it will involve a sale or a transfer without cost, remain undisclosed due to extensive redactions in the filing.
NASCAR emphasized that the charter in question is not one of those previously sold by Stewart-Haas Racing to 23XI Racing or Front Row Motorsports. Instead, it pertains to a charter that NASCAR asserts 23XI and Front Row do not possess, as they did not sign the 2025 charter agreement.
As per NASCAR, "Under the Fourth Circuit’s mandate, there are currently 30 active Charters, two inactive Charters, and four non-issued charters." The organization noted that unnamed parties have expressed interest in acquiring a Cup Series Charter to NASCAR executives in the past.
However, any movement on the charter transfer is contingent upon a court ruling regarding a preliminary injunction sought by 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports. Both organizations are pursuing recognition as charter teams for the current season. A hearing is scheduled for August 28, but a ruling is not anticipated that day.
NASCAR’s filing conveys, "NASCAR respectfully provides notice, pursuant to the Court’s prior orders, that it plans to issue a Charter to (redacted) after the Court has had an opportunity to review this Notice and make such determinations as it deems appropriate." The notice also requests that the interested party’s name remain undisclosed during the upcoming court proceedings.
