NASCAR has filed a counterclaim against 23XI Racing, Front Row Motorsports, and 23XI Racing co-owner Curtis Polk, alleging Sherman Act violations and conspiracy in their negotiations over charter agreements.

The counterclaim alleges that since June 2022, the defendants engaged in unreasonable restraint of interstate trade. NASCAR claims they attempted to pressure the organization through media campaigns, interference with broadcast negotiations, and threats of event boycotts.

Curtis Polk, who led negotiations on behalf of the Race Team Alliance through the Team Negotiating Committee, is specifically accused of orchestrating collusive behavior to extract more favorable commercial terms from NASCAR. The organization claims Polk and 23XI Racing's owners sought to fundamentally change NASCAR's economic model by demanding a larger share of media rights revenue.

While 13 of 15 teams signed the charter agreement in September, 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports refused, subsequently filing an antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR on October 2, accusing the organization of unlawful monopolization.

NASCAR is seeking:

• A jury trial
• Judgment finding violations of Sherman Act Section 1
• Damages compensation
• Permanent injunction against joint negotiations
• Potential elimination of guaranteed race entry provisions if teams continue legal challenges

Jeffrey Kessler, representing the teams, responded by calling NASCAR's counterclaim "a meritless distraction" and "desperate attempt" to deflect from monopolistic behavior. He maintains the original lawsuit aims to transform NASCAR into a more competitive and fair sport for all stakeholders.

The legal battle continues as both sides prepare to present their cases at trial, marking a significant moment in NASCAR's competitive structure and governance.

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