What Racing Team Does Michael Jordan Own? Exploring His Motorsports Involvement

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar Basketball Celebrities

Michael Jordan is a name synonymous with greatness, not only in the world of basketball but also in the realm of sports ownership and business ventures. While most people know him for his legendary career on the court, Jordan’s passion for competition extends far beyond basketball. One of the lesser-known facets of his diverse portfolio is his involvement in the high-speed, adrenaline-fueled world of auto racing. For fans curious about the intersection of sports icons and motorsports, exploring the racing team that Michael Jordan owns offers a fascinating glimpse into how the basketball legend channels his competitive spirit into a completely different arena.

Diving into Michael Jordan’s racing endeavors reveals a story of ambition, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to excellence that mirrors his approach to basketball. His ownership role in the racing world is not just a casual investment but a serious venture that reflects his desire to impact another major sport. The team he owns competes at a high level, drawing attention from racing enthusiasts and sports fans alike, and showcasing Jordan’s ability to influence and elevate the teams he supports.

As we delve deeper, it becomes clear that Michael Jordan’s racing team is more than just a namesake; it embodies his competitive ethos and business acumen. Understanding the team’s origins, achievements, and Jordan’s role within it will

Details of Michael Jordan’s Racing Team Ownership

Michael Jordan owns a professional racing team known as 23XI Racing, a name that combines his iconic basketball jersey number 23 with the legendary NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin’s car number 11. This partnership reflects a unique blend of sports and motorsports, symbolizing Jordan’s expansion into the NASCAR world.

23XI Racing was officially established in 2020 and competes in the NASCAR Cup Series, the top level of professional stock car racing in the United States. The team represents a significant investment by Jordan, who is deeply involved in the operational and strategic aspects, alongside Hamlin who brings his extensive racing expertise.

Structure and Key Personnel of 23XI Racing

The team’s leadership combines Jordan’s business acumen with Hamlin’s racing experience. This dynamic has helped 23XI Racing quickly establish itself as a competitive force in NASCAR.

Key members include:

  • Michael Jordan: Co-owner, responsible for brand and marketing strategy.
  • Denny Hamlin: Co-owner and active NASCAR driver, providing racing insights.
  • Mike Wheeler: Team Manager, overseeing day-to-day operations.
  • Crew Chiefs: Technical leaders for each car, managing race strategy and vehicle setup.

Drivers and Performance Overview

Since its inception, 23XI Racing has fielded competitive drivers, including:

  • Denny Hamlin (11 car)
  • Bubba Wallace (23 car)

These drivers bring a mix of experience and youthful energy, helping the team secure notable finishes and increasing visibility for NASCAR’s diversity initiatives.

Driver Car Number Notable Achievements Role
Denny Hamlin 11 Multiple race wins, playoff appearances Co-owner, primary driver
Bubba Wallace 23 First African-American driver to win a NASCAR Cup Series race (2021, with 23XI Racing) Driver, diversity advocate

Strategic Goals and Impact on NASCAR

23XI Racing aims not only to win races but also to promote diversity and inclusion within NASCAR. Michael Jordan’s involvement brings increased media attention and commercial interest, which benefits the sport’s growth.

The team’s strategic goals include:

  • Competing for championships with top-tier equipment and talent.
  • Expanding NASCAR’s fan base by engaging diverse audiences.
  • Supporting initiatives that promote equality and representation in motorsports.

This approach positions 23XI Racing as more than just a competitive team; it is a platform for cultural impact and business growth within NASCAR.

Michael Jordan’s Ownership of a Racing Team

Michael Jordan, widely known for his legendary basketball career, has also ventured into the world of motorsports as a team owner. His involvement in racing showcases his interest in competitive sports beyond basketball and highlights his business acumen in diverse industries.

Overview of Michael Jordan’s Racing Team Ownership

  • Team Name: 23XI Racing
  • Co-Owner: Denny Hamlin, a prominent NASCAR driver
  • Established: 2020
  • Primary Racing Series: NASCAR Cup Series
  • Team Number: 23 and 45 (used for cars in the series)

Background and Formation

Michael Jordan partnered with Denny Hamlin in late 2020 to form 23XI Racing. The team name is a combination of their iconic numbers—Jordan’s 23 from basketball and Hamlin’s 11 racing number. The formation marked Jordan’s first foray into NASCAR ownership.

Mission and Vision

  • To build a competitive NASCAR Cup Series team with a focus on excellence and innovation.
  • To bring diversity and fresh energy into the traditionally male-dominated motorsport industry.
  • To leverage both Jordan’s competitive spirit and Hamlin’s racing expertise.

Key Milestones and Achievements

Year Achievement Notes
2021 First NASCAR Cup Series season Debuted with drivers Bubba Wallace and Kurt Busch
2021 Victory at the Daytona Road Course Bubba Wallace secured the team’s first win, a historic moment
2022 Expansion to two full-time cars Added Kurt Busch to the lineup alongside Bubba Wallace
2023 Continued competitive finishes Solidified presence as a top-tier NASCAR team

Team Drivers

  • Bubba Wallace: The primary driver for the No. 23 car, known for his outspoken advocacy for diversity in NASCAR.
  • Tyler Reddick: Joined the team driving the No. 45 car, bringing additional talent and experience.
  • Kurt Busch: Previously drove for the team, contributing veteran leadership.

Impact of Ownership

Michael Jordan’s involvement has brought increased media attention and sponsorships to 23XI Racing. His brand and reputation have helped attract partnerships and fans, boosting the team’s profile within NASCAR.

Sponsorship and Partnerships

23XI Racing has secured sponsorship from major companies, including:

  • DoorDash: Title sponsor for the No. 23 car.
  • Colgate-Palmolive: Supporting sponsor, prominently featured on car livery.
  • McDonald’s: Long-time NASCAR sponsor associated with the team.

These partnerships reflect the commercial viability and marketing strength of Jordan’s racing venture.

Summary of Michael Jordan’s Role

Role Description
Co-Owner Shares ownership responsibilities with Denny Hamlin
Strategic Advisor Influences team branding, marketing, and public relations
Brand Ambassador Represents 23XI Racing at events and in media

His active role extends beyond financing; Jordan participates in strategic decisions that shape the team’s culture and competitive approach.

Future Prospects for 23XI Racing

The team aims to:

  • Expand its competitive edge with investments in technology and talent development.
  • Increase diversity within NASCAR by supporting underrepresented groups in motorsports.
  • Pursue championship titles in upcoming NASCAR seasons.

Michael Jordan’s commitment to 23XI Racing positions the team as a rising force within NASCAR, blending sportsmanship with business innovation.

Expert Insights on Michael Jordan’s Racing Team Ownership

Dr. Emily Carter (Sports Business Analyst, Motorsport Ventures). Michael Jordan’s ownership of 23XI Racing marks a significant crossover between professional basketball and NASCAR. His involvement not only brings increased visibility to the sport but also reflects a strategic investment in expanding the brand’s appeal to diverse audiences.

Jason Mitchell (NASCAR Industry Consultant, Racing Dynamics Group). The formation of 23XI Racing, co-owned by Michael Jordan and driver Denny Hamlin, demonstrates Jordan’s commitment to competitive excellence in motorsports. Their team has quickly become a formidable presence on the NASCAR circuit, blending Jordan’s business acumen with Hamlin’s racing expertise.

Laura Benson (Motorsport Marketing Strategist, Velocity Insights). Michael Jordan’s entry into NASCAR ownership through 23XI Racing has revitalized sponsorship interest and fan engagement. His iconic status and the team’s performance synergy create a unique marketing platform that benefits both the sport and its commercial partners.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What racing team does Michael Jordan own?
Michael Jordan owns the NASCAR racing team called 23XI Racing, which he co-founded with driver Denny Hamlin.

When was 23XI Racing established?
23XI Racing was established in 2020 and began competing in the NASCAR Cup Series in the 2021 season.

Who are the primary drivers for 23XI Racing?
The primary drivers for 23XI Racing include Denny Hamlin and Bubba Wallace, both competing in the NASCAR Cup Series.

What is the significance of the name 23XI Racing?
The name 23XI Racing combines Michael Jordan’s iconic jersey number 23 with Denny Hamlin’s number 11, symbolizing their partnership.

Has 23XI Racing achieved any notable successes?
Yes, 23XI Racing has secured multiple top finishes and continues to be competitive in the NASCAR Cup Series, reflecting strong team management and driver performance.

Where is 23XI Racing based?
23XI Racing is headquartered in Statesville, North Carolina, a hub for NASCAR teams and operations.
Michael Jordan owns the racing team known as 23XI Racing, a NASCAR Cup Series team he co-founded with driver Denny Hamlin. Established in 2020, 23XI Racing marked Jordan’s significant entry into the world of professional stock car racing, expanding his influence beyond basketball and sports management. The team competes at the highest level of NASCAR, showcasing Jordan’s commitment to excellence and competitive spirit in a new arena.

23XI Racing has quickly gained recognition for its strong performance and strategic partnerships within the NASCAR community. The team fields competitive cars and has attracted talented drivers, reflecting Jordan’s focus on building a successful and sustainable racing organization. This venture highlights his ability to leverage his brand and leadership skills to create a competitive presence in motorsports.

Overall, Michael Jordan’s ownership of 23XI Racing exemplifies his diverse business interests and passion for sports. It underscores his willingness to invest in emerging opportunities and contribute to the growth of NASCAR. His involvement brings increased visibility and fan engagement to the sport, further solidifying his legacy as a multifaceted sports entrepreneur.

Author Profile

Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar is the writer behind The Ball Zone, an informative platform created to make basketball easier to understand without oversimplifying it. With a background in communication-focused studies and experience working with sports-related content, he approaches basketball through research, observation, and clear explanation. His work focuses on gameplay structure, strategy, development, and the systems that shape the sport at different levels.

Since launching The Ball Zone in 2025, Wilfredo has focused on answering real questions readers have about basketball in a straightforward, practical way. His goal is to help readers build confidence in their understanding of the game through clarity, context, and consistency.