Reddick Delivers Historic Daytona 500 Win for 23XI Racing, Michael Jordan
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Tyler Reddick claimed victory in the 2026 Daytona 500 on Sunday, securing the first “Great American Race” win for 23XI Racing, co-owned by NBA legend Michael Jordan. Reddick took the lead on the final lap, overtaking the field just before a crash unfolded behind him. It marked both Reddick’s first Daytona 500 win and the first for Jordan as a team owner. A visibly elated Jordan expressed his joy, stating, “I absolutely love it,” and comparing the feeling to winning a championship. Reddick led only one lap – the final one – in a dramatic finish he described as “true Daytona madness.” He noted his son had asked before the race if he would finally win, adding, “Something about today just felt right.”
Reddick Delivers Daytona 500 Upset for Jordan’s 23XI Racing
Tyler Reddick secured a dramatic victory in the 66th running of the Daytona 500 on Sunday, piloting the No. 45 Toyota to the front on the final lap and holding off a hard-charging field. This monumental win marks the first Daytona 500 triumph for Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing team, co-owned with Denny Hamlin.
A Championship Feeling for Jordan
Jordan, visibly elated, described the win as feeling like a championship victory. “I can’t even believe it,” he exclaimed on the Fox broadcast. “It’s so gratifying. We have four guys who were really fighting, helping each other out.”
The victory comes just over two months after 23XI Racing settled a significant antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR, a battle that centered around team charters. Jordan expressed optimism about the future, stating the settlement will be beneficial for both the team and the sport. “Communication – the thing is, both sides have been somewhat at a stalemate and we both needed to have conversations about change, how we can grow this sport,” Jordan told FOX Sports’ Jamie Little.
Reddick’s Late Surge Seals the Deal
Reddick’s winning move was a masterclass in timing and precision. He made a daring pass to the outside to move into second place, then swiftly dove to the inside on the final turn, taking the lead just moments before a multi-car crash erupted behind him. Remarkably, it was Reddick’s first time leading a lap in the entire race.
“I didn’t grasp if I’d ever win this race,” Reddick confessed. “It’s surreal, honestly.” He shared a heartwarming anecdote about his son asking if he would finally win, adding that today “just felt right.”
Overcoming Adversity: Reddick’s Journey
Last year presented significant challenges for Reddick, who failed to secure a win and was eliminated in the round of 12 of the playoffs. He also navigated personal hardship as his youngest son underwent a kidney removal at just four months old. “Last year was really hard for all of us, hard for me,” Reddick acknowledged. “When you’re a Cup driver, and you get to this level and drive for Michael Jordan, it’s expected you win every single year.”
The team’s resilience and dedication were evident in their off-season preparations, resulting in a Camry that proved capable of contending for the win. Reddick emphasized the team’s ability to reset and refocus throughout the race, ultimately leading to their historic victory.
Did you know? This win marks a significant milestone for 23XI Racing, established in 2021, demonstrating the potential for new teams to challenge NASCAR’s established powerhouses.
The Impact of the NASCAR Lawsuit Settlement
The recent settlement between 23XI Racing, Front Row Motorsports, and NASCAR has far-reaching implications for the sport. The agreement granted teams “evergreen charters,” ensuring greater stability and control over their futures. This outcome could encourage further investment in NASCAR and foster a more competitive landscape.
The Future of Team Ownership in NASCAR
Michael Jordan’s entry into NASCAR ownership has already brought increased attention and a new demographic to the sport. His success with 23XI Racing could inspire other high-profile individuals to invest in teams, potentially leading to a more diverse and dynamic ownership structure.
FAQ
Q: Who owns 23XI Racing?
A: Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin co-own 23XI Racing.
Q: What was the significance of the lawsuit against NASCAR?
A: The lawsuit centered around team charters and the desire for greater control and stability for teams like 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports.
Q: When did 23XI Racing win its first Daytona 500?
A: 23XI Racing won its first Daytona 500 on February 15, 2026.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on 23XI Racing’s performance throughout the season. Their success could signal a shift in the competitive balance within NASCAR.
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