Denny Hamlin has criticized NASCAR’s management of teams that refused to sign the updated charter agreement, following revelations about “Operation Gold Codes,” a controversial plan aimed at sidelining these non-signing teams. His remarks came after details of the plan emerged during court proceedings involving NASCAR, 23XI Racing, and Front Row Motorsports.
The driver from Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) shared his opinion on social media, expressing concern and disappointment over the disclosed tactics NASCAR considered to deal with teams that did not agree to the new charter terms.
Details and Reactions on the Court Dispute Between NASCAR and Its Teams
In response to the court’s examination, Hamlin described the plan behind “Operation Gold Codes” as unsettling, although he admitted he could not provide a full explanation. His reaction reflected the unease within the racing community over NASCAR’s hardline strategy against dissenting teams.
“Yeah that’s very very unfortunate and obviously it’s… I don’t know how to explain it but it’s just not good and it’s certainly something that was unfortunate to see. That’s all I can really say about it,” said Hamlin.
Both 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports declined to approve the new charter agreement issued in September 2024 and subsequently filed a lawsuit against NASCAR. They accuse NASCAR of monopolistic practices that threaten their teams’ existence and competitiveness.
At a recent hearing in Charlotte, Judge Kenneth Bell questioned NASCAR’s refusal to sell one of its own inactive charters instead of reallocating active charters belonging to 23XI and Front Row. The judge also asked why there was no plan in place to return these charters should the lawsuits be decided in favor of the teams.
Following these inquiries, NASCAR submitted voluntary concessions pledging not to lease or sell additional charters during the 2025 Cup Series season. The organization also agreed to maintain six open team slots in the rulebook, protecting places for the 23XI and Front Row Motorsports cars. Additionally, NASCAR promised not to transfer inactive Stewart-Haas Racing charters without court approval.
The Stakes for 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports
From the perspective of 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports, the ongoing legal battle represents a critical fight to remain in the competition. According to reports from the Charlotte Observer, both teams argue that losing their charters before the lawsuit concludes would cause irreversible damage, including loss of sponsors and driver commitments.
They have requested a preliminary injunction to preserve their status as chartered teams while the case moves toward its December 2025 trial date. NASCAR opposed this request, arguing its voluntary commitments address the issue adequately.
Denny Hamlin Looks Ahead Amid Legal Challenges
During the NASCAR Cup Series Playoff Media Day in Charlotte, Hamlin revisited the lawsuit topic, acknowledging the disruptive effect on his team but emphasizing their determination to move forward. His outlook remained hopeful despite the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the charter dispute.
“I don’t know. It’s, you know, everyone has to deal with it. The team deals with it. You know, we have our own stuff that we’re having to deal with while going through this. But, you know, one thing’s for sure is 2026 will be better,” Hamlin said.
NASCAR’s commitments include withholding new charter sales during 2025 and reserving six charters, including inactive ones, in case the legal rulings favor 23XI and Front Row. Still, these measures have not fully reassured the two teams, who continue to worry about potential financial and competitive losses.
Hamlin’s On-Track Performance Amid Legal Disputes
Despite the off-track controversies, Denny Hamlin has remained a strong contender during the 2024 racing season. He secured a dominant victory at the Cook Out 400 in Richmond, leading 274 laps in the March race, and followed it up with a win at the Goodyear 400 in Darlington in April.
Throughout the season, Hamlin consistently collected stage wins and pole positions, maintaining his place among the playoff leaders. His competitive form demonstrates resilience as he continues to chase his first NASCAR Cup Series championship while navigating the complexities of the legal dispute.
