The addition of NBA legend Michael Jordan into NASCAR team ownership is drawing attention from all quarters. Legends from various sports are reacting to the news. Meanwhile, one of NASCAR’s greatest drivers himself spoke about the importance of the move.
Jeff Gordon, a four-time NASCAR Cup Series winner himself, believes Jordan’s involvement is one of the biggest deals for the sport.
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“He’s one of the most iconic sports figures there’s ever been. A huge name around the world and a smart businessman. This only adds tremendous value to NASCAR,” Gordon said, speaking on FOX Sports’ show.
He was also surprised that Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan arrived to an agreement so quickly. “I’m still kind of blown away that they were able to pull this all together as quickly as they did,” Gordon added.
Current situation in NASCAR aided this deal, believes Gordon
The Coronavirus pandemic has taken its toll on the world of sports, and NASCAR is no different. However, Gordon believes that this deal is one of the big positives that come out of the recent changes in the sport.
“I think the timing lines up here. We talk about the pandemic and how tough its been. But there are some positives that come out of it too. This is one of those positives,” Gordon said.
“I don’t know if this deal gets put together without the pandemic and some of the things in this sport that make this sport attractive to bring in somebody like Michael Jordan. To put Denny Hamlin involved in this ownership,” Gordon said further.
The former Hendrick Motorsports driver believes that this move solidifies Hamlin’s future in NASCAR, even after he retires as a driver.
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NASCAR Cup Series driver Denny Hamlin (11) Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-USA TODAY Sports
Impact of the involvement of Michael Jordan
Gordon’s former teammate Jimmie Johnson reacted to the news as well. So did the likes of six-time F1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton and golf star Bubba Watson.
There are many details that are yet to be finalized. The car number of the new team is one of them, but it is believed Bubba Wallace will drive the No. 23 car. The number became iconic as Jordan’s jersey number in the NBA.
