Tyler Reddick emerged as the winner of the Daytona 500 this year in the NASCAR Cup Series, and Michael Jordan was seen in a weird moment with the winning driver’s son. Reddick drives for 23XI Racing, a Cup Series team owned by Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin. The moment between Reddick’s kid and the team’s co-owner went viral on social media, and fans gave varied opinions.
Jordan was seen tickling the back of Reddick’s son, Beau, and then scratching his legs while the kid stood beside the winner’s trophy. The incident quickly went viral on social media, as several fans linked it to the infamous Jeffrey Epstein case.
Fans labeled the moment as “inappropriate” and “creepy” in the wake of reported revelations of several major celebrities being associated with Epstein’s files.
What did Tyler Reddick say about the viral Michael Jordan moment?
Amid widespread talks on social media about the moment, Reddick has opened up about the moment and his thoughts on criticism. As per TMZ Sports, the 2026 Dayton 500 winner said on The Stephen A. Smith Show:
“I have gotten to know Michael and his family very well over the years I have been with 23XI, and you know, I don’t see what other people see when it comes to this. You know, for me, it’s a huge moment; this is the biggest moment of my career, it’s a huge moment for my family and for his family. And I just, you know, put that thing aside.”
The 23XI Racing driver was not worried about the moment and the criticism that followed. He was happy that he celebrated the achievement with his family and colleagues. Meanwhile, several big names and rich celebrities have been reportedly revealed to be in connection with Jeffrey Epstein, who was a financial banker and broker.
Even though MJ’s bond with his drivers and their families was constantly questioned on social media, the Daytona 500 win will be much-needed relief for 23XI and its team after their long tussle with NASCAR in court. The lawsuit, led by 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports, was finally settled out of court, as the authorities agreed to crucial changes to ensure equality and fairness in the sport.
Tyler Reddick’s statement about his team’s co-owner clearly depicts the respect he has for the NBA legend. The viral moment might just be another way of MJ enjoying his time with Reddick’s kid.
