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“Too Much Negativity”: Michael Jordan Afraid of Incurring NASCAR Fans’ Hatred on Social Media to Protect Newborn Child
Michael Jordan, known worldwide as a basketball legend, has been making waves in NASCAR as the co-owner of 23XI Racing. However, Jordan recently opened up about the challenges of navigating the intense scrutiny of NASCAR fans, especially on social media, as he takes on a new role—father to a newborn child.
Since its founding in 2020, 23XI Racing, co-owned by Jordan and NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin, has emerged as one of the sport’s most ambitious teams. The team has enjoyed considerable success, including race wins and playoff appearances. However, the highly competitive nature of NASCAR, combined with the passionate and vocal fanbase, has brought Jordan into a new realm of public criticism, something he rarely encountered during his storied basketball career.
While Jordan has remained committed to building a competitive NASCAR team, reports suggest he is increasingly concerned about the toll that online negativity can take on his family, particularly his newborn child. With social media amplifying every decision made by 23XI Racing, from driver choices to race strategies, Jordan finds himself under constant scrutiny from a fanbase unafraid to voice its opinions—sometimes harshly.
“Michael understands and respects the passion of NASCAR fans,” a source close to him revealed. “But as a father, his priorities have changed. He’s seen how social media can create a toxic environment, and he’s determined to protect his family, especially his newborn child, from that kind of negativity.”
Jordan’s concerns are not without merit. Social media has become a double-edged sword for public figures, offering a platform for engagement but also serving as a breeding ground for criticism and hostility. For Jordan, who has always guarded his private life, the stakes feel even higher now as he juggles his professional and personal responsibilities.
Since stepping into NASCAR, Jordan has worked to champion diversity and inclusivity in a sport historically dominated by a single demographic. His partnership with Bubba Wallace, the only Black full-time driver in NASCAR, has brought both acclaim and criticism to the team. While Wallace’s historic win at Talladega Superspeedway in 2021 was celebrated as a breakthrough moment, it also highlighted the polarized reactions that come with breaking barriers.
Now, with the arrival of his newborn, Jordan is doubling down on efforts to shield his family from the darker side of fame. His decision to limit his social media presence and avoid engaging with overly critical fans is part of a broader strategy to ensure that his role as a father isn’t overshadowed by the pressures of being a public figure in a highly competitive sport.
Fans and colleagues have expressed support for Jordan’s stance, recognizing the unique pressures he faces. “Michael has achieved everything there is to achieve in basketball, but NASCAR is a whole different beast,” said one insider. “It’s not just about winning races—it’s about managing public expectations, team performance, and now, his family life. He’s learning to balance all of that in his own way.”
Despite these challenges, Jordan remains deeply committed to his vision for 23XI Racing, which includes expanding the team’s presence and continuing to push for progress both on and off the track. His journey in NASCAR serves as a reminder that even the most iconic figures face struggles, particularly when it comes to protecting what matters most—their family.
As the NASCAR season continues, Jordan’s ability to manage the intersection of sports, business, and fatherhood will undoubtedly be watched closely by fans and the media alike. For now, his focus is clear: building a legacy in NASCAR while ensuring his family is shielded from unnecessary negativity.
