Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing stepped away from NBA headlines and into motorsports during Daytona 500 weekend, unveiling a special Air Jordan 9 PE built for performance on the track. The pair was worn by pit crew members during the Duel races, offering a rare look at how Jordan Brand blends sport-specific function with its legacy design language.
The sneaker arrives in a stealthy blacked-out look, combining a suede upper with a leather mudguard. Red accents hit the branding, including a stitched globe detail on the heel, while a grey sockliner adds subtle contrast. While it loosely echoes the classic Air Jordan 9 “Charcoal”, the build and materials clearly separate this version from its original inspiration.
What truly defines this PE is its purpose. Designed for NASCAR conditions, the shoe meets SFI 3.3/5 safety standards, meaning it’s fire-resistant and equipped with oil-resistant, high-traction soles. The Air Jordan 9s boot-like structure makes it a natural base for this kind of adaptation, translating well from hardwood heritage to pit lane functionality.
Although this pair isn’t expected to release, it continues to build momentum around 23XI Racing’s presence in sneaker culture. With recent sightings like Tyler Reddick’s Air Jordan 4 PE, the crossover between motorsports and Jordan Brand feels more active than ever—hinting that a future public drop may not be far off.
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