Michael Jordan delivered a clear message after 23XI Racing opened the NASCAR Cup Series season with back-to-back victories.
Tyler Reddick followed up the team’s Daytona 500 triumph by taking the checkered flag at Atlanta Motor Speedway, putting 23XI Racing firmly in the early championship conversation.
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Jordan was on pit road for the final laps, watching both of his cars in the mix.
Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images
Jordan reacts as 23XI Racing completes historic start
Reddick’s win marked the first time since 2009 that a team has opened the season by winning both the Daytona 500 and the following race.
Despite spending much of the race outside the top 10, Reddick surged forward in the closing laps to seal the victory. During the broadcast, Jordan was effusive in his praise.
“Well, it’s fun to be part of 23XI. Obviously, I’m part of that too, but the guys are really doing well. They’re fighting hard, trying to get us another win. We still have two chances right now, so let’s see what happens.”
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“I have no idea. The last time I looked, he was 18th or 20th. I was thinking, okay, let’s just finish the race; a DNF is what we don’t want. Then here he comes, fighting to the front. He’s really pushing that car, but he’s up there now.”
“He can help Bubba if needed, and he could even win it himself. So let’s see what happens. Hopefully, he can pull it off.”
Reddick overcomes damage to secure Atlanta win
After Reddick held off the field to secure the victory, Jordan remained on pit road despite the cold conditions.
“Yeah, I’m so hyped I don’t even feel the cold right now. If I’m going to stay out here, we might as well go ahead and win. I’m right here. I’m not leaving.”
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Reddick’s No. 45 Toyota picked up damage in contact with Wallace during the first overtime restart, exposing the right front tire. But he held his nerve through the final green-flag run to maintain the lead.
Chase Briscoe closed in during the final stretch, but Reddick held the advantage to secure the win. The result strengthened 23XI Racing’s early championship position after two races.
Jordan co-founded 23XI Racing with Denny Hamlin, and the team has grown steadily since entering the series. Their fast start to 2026 has put them top of the standings after just two races.
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