23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports have filed a new response in their antitrust case against NASCAR, specifically addressing their request for a preliminary injunction tied to the 2025 Charter Agreements. The two teams are seeking court approval to enter into charter deals for next season without having to drop their antitrust claims, allowing them to continue operations while the legal fight unfolds.
They argue the injunction would restore a neutral status quo, preserving the current structure of the sport without forcing teams to accept what they believe are restrictive conditions.
NASCAR, on the other hand, has strongly opposed the injunction, stating it would interfere with its plans for a 32-charter team field in 2025. NASCAR claims the request is a tactic to gain financial leverage and insists teams can still race without charters as “open” entries. They also argue that any financial losses suffered by the teams could be remedied if the court eventually rules in their favor.
In their filing, 23XI and Front Row maintain that NASCAR holds monopoly power as the only premier stock car series available. They allege NASCAR uses exclusionary tactics, such as restricting access to tracks and teams, and forces competitors to release legal claims to participate under the Charter Agreement. They also note that NASCAR hasn’t provided a clear competitive justification for these restrictions or its acquisition of tracks and rival entities.
The legal battle continues as the teams seek to challenge the structure of NASCAR’s business practices without losing their ability to compete in the series.