23XI, Front Row denied charter status for rest of '25 season

23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports will remain designated as Open teams to conclude the 2025 season after having their preliminary injunction request denied on Wednesday.

The two teams had argued before U.S. District Court Judge Kenneth Bell last week that they were in danger of losing drivers and sponsors without charter status. Additionally, by being granted a preliminary injunction, it would keep NASCAR from selling or transferring any of the charters involved in the dispute.

However, NASCAR filed a notice Friday that it would not move any charters. Bell took that commitment into consideration in making his decision while finding “the absence of irreparable harm” from 23XI Racing and Front Row. NASCAR also added a rule in July that ensures all of the teams from 23XI Racing and Front Row will qualify for all remaining races based on owner standings.

“What will happen for the 2026 racing season will remain unsettled for everyone involved in the NASCAR Cup Series until after trial (or an earlier resolution among the Parties),” Bell wrote. “Therefore, there is no irreparable harm with respect to the loss of ‘Charter rights’ for the remainder of the 2025 Cup Series.”

23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports were initially granted a preliminary injunction before the season started to be recognized as charter teams. However, the order was vacated by the U.S. Court of Appeals in June. A month later, the teams were denied a rehearing on the matter as well as a restraining order to keep NASCAR from revoking their charter status. The preliminary injunction that was denied Thursday was filed at the same time as the restraining order.

“We are grateful that Judge Bell has made clear that the status quo is being maintained – protecting my clients’ rights to regain their charters if they prevail at trial and ensuring their ability to continue racing through the 2025 season based on NASCAR’s commitments," said Jeffrey Kessler, the team's counsel.

"Equally important, Judge Bell reaffirmed his broad power to order meaningful changes in NASCAR should we succeed, so that teams, drivers, sponsors, and fans can benefit from a sport positioned for long-term growth and restored competition. We are ready to present our case at trial in December.”

Of the 15 teams in the Cup Series, 23XI Racing and Front Row were the only two that did not sign the 2025 charter agreement when given a final deadline in early September. A month later, they filed a joint lawsuit against NASCAR and Jim France for antitrust allegations.

“We welcome the court’s decision, which brings much-needed clarity to the remainder of the 2025 NASCAR season," read a statement issued by NASCAR. "For nearly 80 years, NASCAR and the France family have championed a bold vision by taking many personal and financial risks to build a sport that fuels livelihoods, inspires generations, and delivers world-class competition. That commitment remains unwavering, and we will continue to defend the integrity of NASCAR and preserve the values that have guided its growth.

"To the fans: We won’t let this lawsuit distract from what matters most — delivering the unforgettable moments you’ve come to expect from our great sport and crowning the next NASCAR Cup Series champion on November 2.”

The trial is scheduled to begin on Dec. 1.