NASCAR Negotiation Tactics Under Scrutiny in Court Testimony

During the ongoing antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR, Front Row Motorsports owner Bob Jenkins took the stand in Charlotte on November 2, 2025. Jenkins testified about the pressure he faced from NASCAR to sign an updated charter with only six hours to review a lengthy 112-page document.

He expressed that he was 'honestly very hurt' by the 'take-it-or-leave-it offer' presented by NASCAR, particularly highlighting that his team has consistently operated at a financial loss, averaging $6.8 million per season, with a staggering $8 million loss reported in 2022.

Jenkins, who has owned Front Row Motorsports since 2005 and had a three-car team during the 2025 season, felt compelled to join the lawsuit alongside Denny Hamlin, co-owner of 23XI Racing, due to NASCAR's insistence on cost-cutting measures which he found particularly troubling given his ongoing financial struggles.

He revealed that despite his losses, his passion for the sport drives him to continue funding his team. Jenkins recounted that when presented with the charter, he requested an extension for review, only to be told by NASCAR commissioner Steve Phelps that negotiations were closed.

He noted that not a single team owner expressed satisfaction with the signing of the charter, stating, 'Joe Gibbs felt like he let me down by signing.' Jenkins understood why other team owners felt forced to sign the agreement quickly, as many have significant investments in their teams, with facilities valued at $500 to $600 million and long-term sponsorship deals.

NASCAR attorney Lawrence E. Buterman questioned Jenkins' claims about Front Row’s financial losses, suggesting he may be obscuring figures that could paint a more favorable financial picture for the team.

He also challenged the compensation structure of Front Row, where drivers receive only 8.5% of the 25% that NASCAR pays in team revenues. Jenkins defended this disparity, arguing that the costs associated with NASCAR team ownership are unique, emphasizing, 'You don't wreck a $350,000 basketball.' The outcome of this case could have major implications for NASCAR's business practices and the financial viability of its teams, as it highlights the challenging dynamics between team owners and the governing body.

According to reports, Jenkins' testimony underscores a broader concern among team owners regarding NASCAR's negotiation tactics and financial policies.