Following the 2024 U.S. presidential election, NBA legend and NASCAR team co-owner Michael Jordan was forced to clarify a misleading claim that he had endorsed Donald Trump for president. The false assertion spread in the wake of the election, prompting Jordan's representatives to issue a public denial.
About the controversy
The controversy began ahead of the election when a post from X user TheRoyalSerf falsely claimed that Michael Jordan had endorsed Trump. The post, which featured an image of Jordan and the phrase “JUST IN,” suggested the endorsement was breaking news, but provided no reliable sources or confirmation. This post followed a legitimate story about NBA star LeBron James endorsing Kamala Harris for vice president.
However, the post was quickly disputed by the community notes feature on X, which referenced a news story from October 31 confirming that Jordan had not endorsed any candidate and had remained neutral throughout the election cycle.
After the election results were finalized, Jordan's representatives confirmed the truth, telling The Independent that the claims were baseless.
"There is absolutely no truth to the claim that Michael Jordan has made an endorsement in the presidential election," a representative stated.
Jordan’s Influence in NASCAR
Michael Jordan has become a significant figure in the NASCAR world in recent years, particularly after he co-founded 23XI Racing, a NASCAR Cup Series team, with driver Denny Hamlin. Jordan made headlines when he showed interest in providing opportunities to African American driver Bubba Wallace, who became the first driver for 23XI when it debuted in the 2021 Cup Series season. Wallace competes in the No. 23 car, a tribute to Jordan’s iconic jersey number during his NBA career.
Since its launch, 23XI Racing has grown to include a second car, and rumors suggest the team may expand further in the future. In just its first season, the team notched a victory, and now, with Tyler Reddick on board, 23XI has secured a spot in the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs, with Reddick competing for the championship at the Phoenix finale.
In addition to its racing success, 23XI Racing is involved in an ongoing legal battle with NASCAR, alongside Front Row Motorsports. The teams have filed a lawsuit against the racing organization, alleging that NASCAR operates as a monopoly.
Through these ventures, Jordan continues to shape his influence not only in basketball but also in motorsports, while maintaining a careful distance from political endorsements. It seems Michael's Political career will stay a false dream for different political parties.
