23XI Racing Aims to Re-Sign Top Cup Driver Tyler Reddick

NASCAR insider reveals the potential salary it could take to keep the current points leader in the fold.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 10:56pm

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting a NASCAR race scene, with sharp planes of color representing the cars and track. The vibrant colors of 23XI Racing and Tyler Reddick's car are the focal point, conveying the intensity and excitement of the sport.A cubist interpretation of Tyler Reddick's dominant 2026 NASCAR season captures the raw energy and competitive spirit of the sport.Darlington Today

Tyler Reddick, the current points leader in the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season, is in the final year of his contract with 23XI Racing. Industry executives have speculated that Reddick could command an annual salary in the range of $7 million on his next deal, though 23XI president Steve Lauletta declined to comment on the specifics of contract negotiations. Reddick has expressed a desire to remain with 23XI, stating 'I would love to stay with 23XI' and 'I want to be here.' 23XI is doing everything it can to re-sign Reddick, who has been dominant this season, winning the Daytona 500 and three of the first eight races.

Why it matters

Retaining Tyler Reddick is a top priority for 23XI Racing, as he has emerged as one of the top drivers in the Cup Series. Reddick's performance this season, including winning the Daytona 500 and three of the first eight races, has significantly increased his market value, making it critical for 23XI to lock him up long-term to maintain their competitiveness.

The details

According to a report from Adam Stern of Sports Business Journal, industry executives have speculated that Reddick could earn an annual salary in the range of $7 million on his next contract. 23XI president Steve Lauletta declined to comment on the specifics of the negotiations, but did say the team is 'having the discussions we need to make sure the long term is how we all envision it, which is us moving forward collectively.' Reddick has also expressed his desire to remain with 23XI, telling The Athletic last month 'I want to be here' and 'I'm looking forward to getting all buttoned up so we can move on.'

  • Reddick's current contract with 23XI Racing expires at the end of the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season.
  • Reddick won the 2026 Daytona 500 and has won 3 of the first 8 races this season, putting him atop the points standings.

The players

Tyler Reddick

The current points leader in the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season, driving for 23XI Racing. Reddick has won the Daytona 500 and 3 of the first 8 races this year.

Steve Lauletta

The president of 23XI Racing, the team that currently employs Tyler Reddick.

Denny Hamlin

The co-owner of 23XI Racing, who has stated that Reddick is in the team's long-term plans.

Michael Jordan

The co-owner of 23XI Racing, alongside Denny Hamlin.

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What they’re saying

“I would love to stay with 23XI.”

— Tyler Reddick

“I want to be here. I love racing here at 23XI, and I'm looking forward to getting all buttoned up so we can move on.”

— Tyler Reddick

“He will be, and Tyler's one of those guys that was very important for us to get our hands on very early, but I think he's lived up to the expectations for us.”

— Denny Hamlin, Co-owner, 23XI Racing

What’s next

23XI Racing is currently in contract negotiations with Tyler Reddick to try and re-sign the top Cup Series driver to a long-term deal before his current contract expires at the end of the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Retaining Tyler Reddick is a critical priority for 23XI Racing as he has emerged as one of the top drivers in the Cup Series. His dominant performance this season, including winning the Daytona 500 and three of the first eight races, has significantly increased his market value, making it essential for 23XI to lock him up long-term to maintain their competitiveness.