NASCAR teams 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports will compete as open teams in the 2025 Cup Series after NASCAR removed the anticompetitive release requirement from its open agreement.

Jeffrey Kessler, the teams' lead attorney, confirmed both organizations will continue racing while pursuing legal action for charter team status. The teams are appealing to the 4th Circuit for an injunction that would allow them to compete as chartered teams and avoid potential competitive disadvantages.

The dispute arose when both teams refused to sign the 2025 charter agreement or open agreement in September due to a clause preventing legal claims against NASCAR. This led to an antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR and Jim France, alleging anti-competitive practices.

Key impacts for the teams as open competitors:

• Must qualify for each race
• No guaranteed starting spots
• Reduced prize money compared to charter teams

While a judge initially denied their request for charter team status on November 8, the lawsuit has been expedited for quick resolution. The 2025 NASCAR season begins February 2, with both teams expected to participate despite their open team status.

The teams remain committed to competing in NASCAR while pursuing what they consider a more equitable arrangement through legal channels.

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