Michael Jordan, widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes in history, has transitioned from the basketball court to the racetrack as a co-owner of the NASCAR team 23XI Racing. Having recently settled a bitter legal dispute with NASCAR, Jordan is now directing his attention towards the upcoming season, which kicks off with the highly anticipated Daytona 500 this weekend.
As Jordan immerses himself in his role within the team, drivers of 23XI Racing, including Bubba Wallace, Tyler Reddick, Riley Herbst, and Corey Heim, have provided insights into their experiences working with the basketball icon. Their accounts reveal a shared enthusiasm for the upcoming season and highlight Jordan’s commitment to fostering a successful team environment.
Bubba Wallace shared his experience meeting with Jordan during a recent golf outing, noting that the co-owner is eager and motivated for a fresh start as the new racing season begins. He emphasized the importance of collaboration and having the right team members in place, stating, “To win at this level is super hard. But when you have the right people surrounding you, then the sky’s the limit.”
Tyler Reddick echoed this sentiment, recalling the camaraderie experienced during team functions and meetings with Jordan, Denny Hamlin, and Curtis Polk. He expressed gratitude for the clear expectations set by the ownership and shared aspirations for victory, especially in high-stakes races like the Daytona 500.
Corey Heim, a rising star in the sport, expressed appreciation for Jordan’s active involvement with the team. He noted that Jordan reaches out after races to offer congratulations and motivative feedback, a rare quality among team owners. This level of engagement helps to cultivate a supportive atmosphere and connects the drivers with a legacy that is larger than racing alone.
Riley Herbst, entering his second season with 23XI Racing, emphasized the consistent communication and encouragement provided by Jordan and Hamlin, reinforcing the notion that leadership is actively invested in the team’s success and well-being.
As the drivers gear up for the Daytona 500, there is a palpable sense of excitement and hope. With Jordan at the helm, 23XI Racing is poised to make significant strides in the NASCAR series. The collaborative spirit and dedication to performance exhibited by the team and its ownership signal a promising journey ahead, and fans can look forward to a thrilling race weekend.