Michael Jordan's NASCAR team has been making waves in the racing world. After a successful debut in 2021 and the addition of a second full-time entry in 2022, the organization is now set to expand further by adding a third driver in 2025. This move showcases the team's ambition and determination to make a significant impact in the NASCAR Cup Series.

Michael Jordan's NASCAR Journey - From Expansion to Controversy

Riley Herbst Joins the Team

Riley Herbst, a seasoned driver in the second-tier NASCAR Xfinity Series, will be piloting the No. 35 Toyota in his rookie season. He has shown remarkable talent and has won three races in the past five seasons, including the final event of 2024 in Phoenix. Herbst's addition to 23XI Racing is a significant step forward for the team, as he brings with him a wealth of experience and a hunger for success."Joining 23XI and Toyota is a dream come true for me," said Herbst. "Racing full-time in the Cup Series has been my goal since I started in NASCAR, and I'm excited to start this new chapter with such a talented and driven team. 23XI has achieved a lot in a short time, and I look forward to contributing to their success as the organization grows."

23XI Racing's Success and Controversy

Co-owned by Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin, 23XI Racing has had a remarkable run in the NASCAR Cup Series. In just four seasons, the team has won eight races, with five victories by Tyler Reddick, two by Bubba Wallace, and one by Kurt Busch. Reddick's win in the regular season championship in 2024 and his advancement to the Championship 4 (finishing fourth) were significant milestones for the organization.However, the team has not been without its share of controversy. In September, 23XI did not sign NASCAR's charter agreement for 2025 and filed an antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR and CEO Jim France. Both sides have already appeared in court, and the legal process is ongoing. Despite this, NASCAR has allowed 23XI (and Front Row Motorsports, who joined the lawsuit) to compete as "open" teams in 2025, which means they will not have guaranteed spots in every race and will receive less prize money.

Expansion Plans and the Daytona 500

Despite the legal challenges, 23XI is moving forward with its expansion plans. All three drivers - Riley Herbst, Bubba Wallace, and Tyler Reddick - will hit the track in February when the season kicks off at the Daytona 500. This is a crucial moment for the team as they look to build on their past successes and make a strong start to the new season.The addition of a third driver will not only increase the team's competitiveness but also provide more opportunities for success. With a talented lineup of drivers and a dedicated team, 23XI Racing is poised to make a big splash in the NASCAR Cup Series in the coming years.