Tyler Reddick has dismissed suggestions that Michael Jordan acted inappropriately whilst celebrating Sunday’s Daytona 500 victory with the driver’s young son.
The 23XI Racing driver won NASCAR’s most prestigious race, but social media attention quickly shifted to a viral video showing Jordan celebrating with Reddick’s child.
Speaking with ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith, Reddick defended Jordan and rejected interpretations suggesting anything untoward occurred during the emotional victory lane celebrations.
“From my perspective, I’ve gotten to know Michael and his family very well over the years I’ve been here with 23XI, and I don’t see what other people see when it comes to this,” Reddick said. “For me, it’s a huge moment; this is the biggest moment of my career.”
The driver emphasised the celebration’s context, noting the significance of the achievement for everyone connected to 23XI Racing, including Jordan’s family members who were present to witness the historic triumph.
“It’s a huge moment for my family and for his family, and I just put that off to the side and think about the look on Yvette’s face and the whole family and his whole group when they got to victory lane too, and just how happy everybody was celebrating together,” Reddick explained, referencing Jordan’s wife. “So, that’s where I’m at with it.”
Victory fulfils dream of racing for Jordan
Beyond addressing the controversy, Reddick expressed profound appreciation for the opportunity to deliver such a significant result for Jordan’s organisation.
The Daytona 500 represents NASCAR’s crown jewel event, and securing victory in the sport’s biggest race whilst driving for a team co-owned by arguably basketball’s greatest player carried special meaning.
“To do it for someone like Michael Jordan is, for myself, a dream come true,” Reddick said in a separate interview, highlighting the personal significance of achieving success under Jordan’s ownership.
The victory marks a watershed moment for 23XI Racing, the team Jordan co-owns with fellow NASCAR champion Denny Hamlin. Since launching in 2021, the organisation has established itself as competitive within NASCAR’s Cup Series, but winning the Daytona 500 elevates their profile dramatically and validates Jordan’s investment in the sport.
