It’s one of the oldest tales in the motorsport industry: the more money, the higher the chances of success. Since Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin became the owners of 23XI Racing, it’s become one of the most renowned NASCAR teams. Apart from assembling star drivers like Tyler Riddick and Bubba Wallace, there’s more that sets the team apart. One of those aspects is the result of the owners’ $16 million investment.
In 2024, the 23XI Racing team is now enjoying its dream time at their brand-new headquarters in Huntersville. This sprawling complex on a 15-acre plot is awe-inspiring and a dream home for a humble starter like Tyler Reddick. With the support of two brilliant minds, the 28-year-old couldn’t help but praise his bosses’ expertise for the luxury the team is enjoying now.
A high-profile view into 23XI Racing’s newly built operational base
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Plans for a new headquarters had been in the works since 2021, when Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin spent $3.7 million on a 15-acre site. According to team executive Steve Lauletta, the HQ building’s extension cost is around $16 million, occupying 60,000 to 90,000 square feet. It’s one of the biggest expenditures in a racing headquarters that NASCAR has made in over a decade. With all the key personnel and high-profile athletes on board, No. 45 driver Tyler Reddick recently spoke about their phenomenal base, which seems more than just an organization.
In the 10th episode of Kevin Harvick’s Happy Hour, Harvick highlighted the impressive lineup of members in 23XI Racing by stressing their shift to a better atmosphere. He wanted to know from his guest, Tyler Reddick, how their high-profile facilities attract good people.
Comparing Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin’s new project to the previous one, the two-time Xfinity Series champion noted, “To go from the facility we were using in Nashville, I mean, I wouldn’t say it was bad. It was just like it reminded me of the humble beginnings Brad Keselowski Racing had.” Describing the infrastructure, he said, “For me, it’s just such an awesome home to have.”
“There are windows all around this building. It’s a lot of natural light, and Denny and the whole group got really creative with it,” he added. But that’s not all. What stands out about the facility isn’t that it’s different from most other teams. Reddick explained, “It’s not necessarily about feeling different, but just being a warm, welcoming, inviting, clean environment.”
One point Reddick mentioned was that the facility owned by 23XI is not “fully complete yet [and] open to the public,” which is understandable considering their recent move into their new base. He believes that under Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan’s leadership, the team will improve over time by creating a much better atmosphere.
Their new shop is undoubtedly well-equipped with a ton of facilities, but it appears they weren’t fully utilized during the last Bristol race, as neither Tyler Reddick nor Bubba Wallace managed to finish in the top 15. Meanwhile, their boss, Denny Hamlin, silenced critics with a significant win at Bristol. It seems they still have a lot to learn from him.
Michael Jordan’s partner stole the spotlight in a thrilling Bristol finish
On Sunday, Denny Hamlin and other NASCAR veterans led the way after a dramatic 500-lap race at the historic Bristol Motor Speedway. The concrete track lived up to its reputation, providing edge-of-your-seat action until the checkered flag. The competition was fierce, with several strong contenders pushing Hamlin to the limit.
While Michael Jordan’s partner, the No. 11 JGR driver, led a maximum of 163 laps, it would’ve been unfair to label him as the clear favorite since several dominant drivers overtook him repeatedly. The most impressive part of his comeback, however, was reclaiming the lead with 48 laps to go and holding off a determined challenge from teammate Martin Truex Jr. Reflecting on the race, Denny Hamlin spotted the challenges of managing the tires at Bristol as an exciting aspect of the sport.
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Experience paid off for @dennyhamlin. pic.twitter.com/ytY3sudfdY
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) March 17, 2024
After his historic win, the 43-year-old JGR driver noted, “Once it became a tire management race, I really liked our chances.” Witnessing their Bristol saga was truly a sight, where old-school tactics prevailed over modern-day strategies.
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Now, eyes are on the COTA outing. As for the 23XI stars, their co-owner, Michael Jordan, is there to support them. As the weekend kicks off, it’ll be interesting to see if Tyler Reddick will finish at the pole or if it will be the No. 11 JGR once again.
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