Skip to main content
Join Now
NASCAR Logo

Rick Ware speaks out after judge makes ruling in Legacy Motor Club NASCAR charter lawsuit

Brian Jones Profile Picby:Brian Jones•04/30/25•

brianjones_93

Rick Ware
Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

A judge has denied a preliminary injunction for Legacy Motor Club in its case against Rick Ware Racing (RWR) for one of the team’s charters, according to Jordan Bianchi of The Athletic. After the ruling was made, Rick Ware issued a statement.

“RWR is gratified by the Court’s decision in this case. It’s good to be vindicated,” Ware said. Legacy Motor Club filed a lawsuit against Rick Ware Racing over a contract dispute related to a charter agreement earlier this month. Legacy has two charter agreements for the 2026 season but was seeking a third from RWR. The lawsuit states that Legacy described RWR as ‘strapped for cash and unable to compete at Cup Series level.’

“Despite having a binding deal in place, RWR (Rick Ware Racing) wants to back out,” said Legacy in the complaint. “It has told Legacy that it will not, under any circumstances, close the parties’ transaction. Legacy has tried to talk sense into RWR, to no avail. Legacy’s patience has run out. It now brings this suit to enforce its rights and hold RWR to its deal.”

More on Legacy Motor Club and Rick Ware Racing

The Athletic reported that RWR was under the impression the agreement was for 2027, despite signing the agreement which listed 2026 as the start date. “This lawsuit distorts the actual facts and is a misguided attempt to tarnish our reputation,” Rick Ware Racing’s statement read. “RWR has negotiated in good faith and operated with the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. We are confident that the truth will prevail and look forward to swiftly resolving this matter through the proper legal channels.”

Legacy currently has two charters with John Hunter Nemechek and Erik Jones as the full-time drivers. Team owner Jimmie Johnson also competes in the No. 84 car in a part-time role. Since the team opened in 2021, Legacy has earned one race win in the Cup Series, and that was Jones at Darlington in 2022.

RWR currently has Cody Ware as its only full-time Cup Series driver. Corey LaJoie has competed with the team on a part-time basis since late last season.