NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin confirmed Monday night that he and NBA legend Michael Jordan will field a team in 2021 that will feature Bubba Wallace as its driver. And of course the new team may utilize Jordan’s classic #23 for their car.
Hamlin, 39, announced the news on Twitter, saying he and NBA Charlotte Hornets owner Jordan, 57, would field a team in 2021. However, the new NASCAR team has yet to be named. Also, Wallace has officially signed a multi-year deal to be the team’s driver.
“Starting a race team has been something that Michael and I have talked about while playing golf together over the years, but the timing or circumstances were never really right,” said Hamlin. “It just makes sense now to lay the foundation for my racing career after I’m done driving and also help an up-and-coming driver like Bubba take his career to a higher level.”
“Plus, Michael and Bubba can be a powerful voice together,” Hamlin added. “Not only in our sport, but also well beyond it.”
Jordan will be the principal owner of the new team. In addition, Hamlin will serve as a minority partner and continue to drive the No. 11 for Joe Gibbs Racing.
Hamlin and Jordan purchased the charter from Germain Racing’s No. 13 team ensuring they can participate in every 2021 race.
Twitter Reactions to Denny Hamlin’s Big News
The news of Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan pairing up for a new NASCAR team had the sports world talking on Tuesday. As analysts spoke on sports shows and speculated about the success of the team on and off the track, Twitter blew up with opinions on the new team.
Meanwhile, many NASCAR fans think the move to sign Bubba Wallace was a mistake.
Others questioned if it was acceptable for Hamlin to be an owner of one team, while driving for another.
However, plenty of fans on Twitter also congratulated Hamlin, Jordan, and Wallace.
There may be divided opinions on the new team selecting Bubba Wallace as their driver. But, reactions online have already shown the new team is already one of the most anticipated storylines of the 2021 NASCAR season.
