UPDATE: Things could always change, of course, but it seems as though the 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports v NASCAR antitrust lawsuit and countersuit is destined for a trial by jury come December.
The two parties met in the Western District of North Carolina court on Thursday following two days of settlement mediation overseen by Judge Kenneth D. Bell. The judge, who has overseen this case for over a year now opened this session by thanking the legal representatives and their clients for trying to reach an agreement, even if it were in vain.
“Everyone acted in good faith to settle this case,” said Judge Bell.
With no settlement in place after Tuesday and Wednesday, the parties moved on towards summary judgment motions that each side has filed over the past month — a process that needs to at least be considered by Bell before a trial begins.
See much more at Motorsport.
ORIGINAL POST: Judge Kenneth Bell did not issue a ruling Thursday in NASCAR’s or the teams’ requests for summary judgements in their favor.
The hearing lasted three and a half hours. A ruling is expected in the next two weeks.
Bell has previously indicated that he is unlikely to issue a summary judgement for either party since there are clear disputes that need to be resolved.
Earlier today, the court did approve the Drivers Advocacy Council’s request to file a brief in the case.
23XI/FRM attorney Jeffrey Kessler and NASCAR attorney Chris Yates as they leave the courthouse today after summary judgment hearings. They await the rulings in next two weeks: @NASCARONFOX pic.twitter.com/1hgGlJEzQh
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) October 23, 2025
Court has let out. So honestly, it was a pretty procedural day. A lot of what was argued previously appeared in filings but with additional exhibits.
Judge Bell says any summary judgment rulings will come within two weeks. Biggest takeaway was that Judge Bell thanked both… pic.twitter.com/ang4HkbMLO
— Matt Weaver (@MattWeaverRA) October 23, 2025
AND: Teams’ Statement, Attributable to Jeffrey Kessler
“My clients’ goal has always been to provide opportunities for growth and stability for every team and they remain steadfast advocates for a fairer, stronger sport. Today’s hearing confirmed the facts of NASCAR’s monopolistic practices and showed NASCAR for who they are – retaliatory bullies who would rather focus on personal attacks and distract from the facts. My clients have never been more united and committed to ensuring a fair and competitive sport for all teams, partners, drivers and fans. We’re going to trial to hold NASCAR accountable.”
For previous posts and information, see the 2024 Antitrust Lawsuit page.