23XI Racing has inked a new deal with Upper Deck ahead of the trip to Darlington Raceway for the Southern 500 crown jewel race.
According to a press release, the deal includes multiple aspects. Tyler Reddick and Bubba Wallace will each have trading cards as they become the first racing drivers to join the Upper Deck lineup in more than 20 years. The deal also includes authenticated memorabilia for both drivers.
One big part of the deal is a special scheme for the Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway on Sunday, Sept. 1 (6 p.m. ET on USA). Reddick's No. 45 Toyota Camry XSE will feature a yellow and blue scheme with Upper Deck logos on the sides.
The hood, however, will feature some athletic icons. 23XI Racing co-owner Michael Jordan will be in the center of the hood in his Chicago Bulls uniform. Wayne Gretzky will be over his right shoulder while Tiger Woods will be over his left.
The No. 45 Upper Deck Toyota Camry XSE will debut this weekend at Darlington, S.C., in the 2024 regular season finale. The scheme is fit for the current regular season points leader with 23XI Racing co-owner Michael Jordan alongside Tiger Woods and Wayne Gretzky on the hood 🐐. pic.twitter.com/tuNLwe0FKz
— 23XI Racing (@23XIRacing) August 26, 2024
"This collection is monumental for Upper Deck as it reintroduces racing into our diverse lineup of premium authenticated memorabilia," said Upper Deck President Jason Masherah in a statement.
"Just as 23XI burst onto the NASCAR scene with speed and determination, we're bringing racing to our portfolio with the same energy. We're thrilled to celebrate iconic moments from this fan-centric sport."
According to the press release, the 23XI Racing memorabilia collection will be available at a later date through the Upper Deck Store and Upper Deck Certified Diamond Dealer hobby shops. The list of options will include race-worn firesuits, autographed artwork, and many other items.
Reddick will showcase these sports legends while trying to win the regular-season championship, which awards 15 bonus playoff points. He will do so at Darlington Raceway, a track where his career-best finish is second (2022, 2023).
Reddick has a 17-point lead over Kyle Larson heading into the final race of the regular season. This is not a major advantage, especially considering that Larson was the only driver to finish ahead of Reddick in last season's Southern 500.