23XI Racing Makes History with Front-Row Sweep at COTA

A Historic Achievement for 23XI Racing

In a groundbreaking moment for NASCAR, 23XI Racing, co-owned by basketball legend Michael Jordan and NASCAR veteran Denny Hamlin, etched its name in history books with a front-row sweep during the qualifying session of the NASCAR Cup Series at the Circuit of The Americas (COTA). This remarkable feat underscores the team’s growing prowess in the sport, marking a significant milestone in their journey since their establishment in 2020.

Tyler Reddick and Bubba Wallace Shine Bright

Leading the charge was Tyler Reddick, who secured the pole position with an impressive lap time of 1 minute, 38.076 seconds, averaging a speed of 88.095 mph. His triumph at COTA was not just a testament to his exceptional skill but also a continuation of his success at the track, having previously won there in 2023. Reddick’s ability to master road courses was evident as he claimed his 10th pole in the NASCAR Cup Series, solidifying his reputation as a formidable competitor.

Bubba Wallace, Reddick’s teammate, closely followed with the second-fastest time, trailing by a mere 0.224 seconds. This performance not only highlighted Wallace’s prowess but also showcased the strong camaraderie within the team. Both drivers demonstrated seamless coordination, navigating COTA’s challenging 17-turn track with precision and strategy.

Behind the Scenes: Strategy and Preparation

The success of Reddick and Wallace was not without its challenges. Their qualifying strategy involved meticulous planning and execution, with both drivers expressing concerns about potentially disrupting each other’s laps. This moment of mutual concern added a personal touch, illustrating the trust and teamwork essential in high-stakes racing. "I was worried I screwed his lap up, but he was worried that he screwed mine up," Reddick admitted, revealing the camaraderie that fuels their collective success.

Moreover, the team’s hard work behind the scenes was pivotal. Reddick’s crew made significant improvements to the No. 45 Toyota Camry from practice to qualifying, adapting to unexpected challenges. Reddick reflected on the journey, stating, "Today really threw us for a loop. The pace was nowhere near what we expected, but the team’s efforts were massive. We’re thrilled with the track position for tomorrow."

A Team on the Rise

23XI Racing’s journey from its inception in 2020 to this historic achievement is a story of relentless growth and determination. Expanding from a single-car team with Bubba Wallace in 2021 to a two-car operation in 2022, the team welcomed Tyler Reddick in 2023, further elevating their competitive edge. This front-row sweep at COTA is not just a victory for the drivers but a testament to the entire team’s dedication and progress.

Looking Ahead and Celebrating Milestones

As the team prepares for the race, the excitement is palpable. The qualifying session also saw Chase Elliott secure third place, followed by Carson Hocevar, Daniel Suarez, Shane van Gisbergen, Kyle Larson, Kyle Busch, Ross Chastain, and Todd Gilliland rounding out the top ten. Notably, 18-year-old Connor Zilisch will make his NASCAR Cup Series debut from 14th position, driving the No. 87 Red Bull-sponsored Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for 23XI Racing

23XI Racing’s front-row sweep at COTA is a celebration of teamwork, strategy, and skill. With Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin at the helm, the team’s future looks promising. As they continue to make waves in NASCAR, this historic moment serves as a reminder of their commitment to excellence and their aspirations for continued success. The roar of engines at COTA echoes the excitement of what’s to come for this dynamic team.