Tyler Reddick, driver of the No. 45 Toyota for Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing, spoke out after his historic win at the 2026 Daytona 500 last Sunday. The victory marked a significant comeback for Reddick and the team following a turbulent 2025 season. However, the celebrations sparked an unexpected online backlash regarding NBA legend Michael Jordan’s interaction with Reddick’s son, Beau, at victory lane, prompting the driver to publicly address the issue.
During an appearance on Stephen A. Smith’s SiriusXM show, Reddick expressed his disappointment over the accusations, stating he saw the moment as entirely innocent and could not understand the negative reaction. The NASCAR champion firmly stood by the interaction, emphasizing the long-standing relationship he has with Jordan and his family.
From my perspective, I’ve gotten to know Michael and his family very well over the years I’ve been here with 23XI, and I don’t see what other people see when it comes to this. For me, it’s a huge moment; this is the biggest moment of my career.
Tyler Reddick said via Stephen A. Smith’s SiriusXM show.
Celebration Turned Controversial in Victory Lane
The victory lane scene was one of pure joy, not only for Reddick and the 23XI Racing community but also for Jordan’s family. The interaction between Michael Jordan and Beau Reddick, which some online users questioned, was described by Tyler as a routine, affectionate moment similar to previous celebrations following other wins. Reddick dismissed the backlash as an unnecessary and manufactured controversy, emphasizing the happiness exhibited by Jordan’s family during the celebration.
It’s a huge moment for my family and for his family, and I just put that off to the side and think about the look on [Michael Jordan’s wife] Yvette’s face and the whole family and his whole group when they got to victory lane too, and how happy everybody was celebrating together. So, that’s where I’m at with it.
Tyler Reddick added.
The Significance of Driving for Michael Jordan and 23XI Racing
Later in the interview, Reddick reflected on what it means to compete under the ownership of Michael Jordan and co-owner Denny Hamlin. He recalled his uncertainty about his future career direction until receiving the opportunity to be the lead driver of the No. 45 car. Being chosen by two of the most respected figures in sports has been a profound milestone in his career.
You know, three or four years when I was working on where am I gonna go in the future, to have someone like Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin say, ‘You’re the guy we want more than anyone else in the field to drive our No. 45 car.’ I mean, to have someone like the driver Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan, who has accomplished everything that he has in his career and his life… to have those words said about you by those two people is stuff you never dream to become reality.
Tyler Reddick said.
Reddick holds the respect of both owners in high regard and aims to continue delivering critical wins to solidify 23XI Racing’s place among NASCAR’s elite teams. As the team seeks to break into the top echelon and challenge the established “big-3” teams, investments in Reddick and his car are expected to increase in hopes of securing a championship.
Looking Ahead for Reddick and 23XI Racing
Tyler Reddick’s triumph at the Daytona 500 represents a pivotal moment not only personally but also for 23XI Racing as a whole. Overcoming the previous year’s challenges, the win could signal a turning point for the team’s championship ambitions. With strong backing from Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin, Reddick is positioned to be a central figure in 23XI’s future success. The team’s continued growth and evolution in the NASCAR garage remain closely watched by fans and competitors alike.
NEW: NASCAR star Tyler Reddick responds following Michael Jordan's "interaction" with his 6-year-old son after Reddick's Daytona 500 win.
The comments from Reddick came on Stephen A. Smith's SiriusXM show.
"From my perspective, I've gotten to know Michael and his… pic.twitter.com/S2eL09y3Rk
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) February 19, 2026
