Michael Jordan will have his NASCAR team in 2021

La NASCAR has a huge aura in the United States, to the point of attracting a basketball legend. Owner of the Charlotte Hornets in the NBA, Michael Jordan is now turning to motorsport by taking the reins of a NASCAR team next year.

To do this, he joined forces with pilot Denny Hamlin. “I grew up in North Carolina and my parents used to take me to races. I've been a lifelong NASCAR fan." commented Michael Jordan. “ The opportunity to own my own team in partnership with my friend Denny is very exciting. »

Team details like name or car number will be announced later. But the choice of pilot was obvious because Michael Jordan's investment also has a social character. He chose Bubba Wallace to drive his car, the only black driver in the championship. “ Historically, NASCAR has struggled with diversity. The time seems perfect to see her evolve and embrace social change, more and more. »

Denny Hamlin adds: “Off the circuit, he has been a strong voice for change in our sport and our country. Michael Jordan and I support him in these efforts and stand by his side. On the track, he deserves the opportunity to compete for wins and our team will make sure he has the resources to do so.« 

Beyond the symbol, Wallace is a driver now established in the NASCAR landscape. He has 105 Cup series starts, with a fifth-place best finish at the Daytona 500 in 2018 and in the regular season finale this year, again at Daytona.

Hired since his debut in 2017 by Richard Petty Motorsports, Wallace announced at the beginning of the month his separation from the team and finds himself with “the opportunity of a lifetime. »

Elle devra être validée avec le rachat d’un charter, qui devrait être celui de Germain Racing . A 40 ans, Denny Hamlin restera de son côté pilote de la Toyota n°11 la saison prochaine. Avec six victoires cette saison, il est actuellement en lice pour le titre.