Legacy Motor Club (LMC) and Rick Ware Racing (RWR) have ended their legal conflict regarding the sale of a NASCAR charter, concluding a lengthy dispute that was on course for a trial. Although both teams have not revealed specific details, the settlement paves the way for LMC to acquire a charter and potentially expand its Cup Series operation. The developments around this agreement have sparked speculation involving driver Corey Heim’s future in the Cup Series.
Background of the Charter Conflict
This conflict began when Jimmie Johnson’s Legacy Motor Club sought a third charter to grow their presence in NASCAR’s premier division. Earlier this year, a deal to purchase a charter from Rick Ware Racing fell apart, leading LMC to file a lawsuit claiming breach of contract. RWR responded with its own lawsuit, contending that the sale was intended for the 2027 season rather than 2026. Rick Ware Racing holds two charters: one used by driver Cody Ware’s No. 51 car and another currently leased to RFK Racing.
Corey Heim’s Potential Role in the Expanded Team
During the disagreements, much attention focused on which charter was involved, with many expecting it to benefit Corey Heim. Heim made his Cup Series debut last season driving for Legacy Motor Club as a substitute for Erik Jones. Despite legacy struggles after switching manufacturers, LMC’s performance has improved in 2025, increasing anticipation about Heim’s chances to secure a full-time ride. Still, the prospect of a long-term partnership remains uncertain without major progress by the team or assurance of Heim staying with Toyota in the absence of alternative options.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz
Following the news of the settlement posted by journalist Bob Pockrass on social media, fans quickly connected the dots between the charter acquisition and Heim’s future. Many expressed excitement and hope for his permanent promotion.
Heim time to Cup hopefully
— Jillian, Social Media User
Other supporters echoed this sentiment, celebrating what appeared to be Heim’s securing of a full-time ride for the upcoming season.
Heim time just got his full-time ride next year,
— Fan, Social Media User
Some discussion also touched on related NASCAR team dynamics, with one fan linking the resolution to pending legal challenges faced by 23XI Racing.
Time for 23XI to settle.
Statements from Rick Ware and Jimmie Johnson
Rick Ware publicly confirmed the terms of the agreement in a statement, expressing optimism about the outcome’s benefits for both teams.
I met with both Jimmie [Johnson] and Cal Wells recently, and we agreed to sell and transfer a charter from RWR to Legacy Motor Club. I believe we landed in a mutually beneficial place for both teams, and the result will be a clear path forward for us all. I look forward to putting all of our focus on finishing the 2025 season strong.
— Rick Ware, Team Owner
Johnson similarly expressed satisfaction with resolving the dispute, emphasizing the importance of moving past the legal issues to focus on future objectives.
Reaching a positive outcome was important for everyone involved. I truly respect the effort put forth by Robby Benton and Rick Ware to reach a settlement so we may all focus on our business operations and future goals. I’m glad this is behind us and we can all move forward in unison.
— Jimmie Johnson, Team Owner
Charter Rules and Remaining Questions
According to NASCAR regulations, each charter may be leased only once per year within the current charter cycle, which spans from 2025 to 2031. A major point of contention in the settlement was identifying which of Rick Ware Racing’s charters was sold to Legacy Motor Club and the timeline of the transaction given an existing multi-year lease agreement with RFK Racing. Brad Keselowski’s team, RFK Racing, has yet to comment on how the resolution affects their charter arrangement.
Implications for Next Season and Beyond
The settlement marks a critical turning point for Legacy Motor Club’s plans to run three full-time cars in the 2026 season. While the deal clears the legal hurdle, the team has limited time to formalize the third entry. The outcome intensifies interest in Corey Heim’s trajectory, as the availability of a charter could open opportunities for him to secure a stable position in NASCAR’s top tier. Meanwhile, other teams watching the charter landscape, such as 23XI Racing and RFK Racing, are expected to respond strategically to these developments as the 2026 season approaches.
Legacy has settled its lawsuit against Rick Ware. Legacy will obtain a charter from RWR. News release wasn’t specific on which team would field that chartered car in 2026 but Legacy folks had indicated last month that it was getting late to try to be three-car team in 2026.
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) September 19, 2025
Heim Time?
— Shaun (@Hashtag_Cyclone) September 19, 2025
https://twitter.com/jillian_days/status/1969151842174009565
Heim time just got his full time ride next year
— Brandon Wright (@Bwright135) September 19, 2025
Time for 23XI to settle.
— Nickolai (@nwfisch) September 19, 2025
Legacy Motor Club and Rick Ware Racing have settled their charter lawsuit. pic.twitter.com/pWd6qip7M3
— Jeff Gluck (@jeff_gluck) September 19, 2025
