23XI Racing Unveils Fire-Resistant Air Jordan 9 PE for the Pit Lane

Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing outfit just delivered one of the more unexpected Player Exclusives of 2026, reworking the Air Jordan 9 for life in the NASCAR pit lane. Debuting during the Duel races ahead of the Daytona 500, this crew-only pair wasn’t built for retail – but it’s already turning heads across both sneaker and motorsport circles.

Visually, the 23XI Racing AJ9 leans into a stealthy, performance-minded palette. Black dominates the upper, executed in a mix of premium suede and durable leather, while hits of red branding inject subtle team energy. A muted-grey liner softens the interior, and the overall look loosely recalls the classic ‘Charcoal’ Air Jordan 9 – albeit retooled with a far more functional intent.

This isn’t just a cosmetic tweak. Created specifically for 23XI pit crew members, the shoe has been engineered to meet strict SFI 3.3/5 fire-resistant safety standards. Underfoot, oil-resistant rubber outsoles provide the traction needed to handle slick garage conditions, transforming the AJ9’s inherently boot-like build into legitimate motorsport equipment. It’s a rare case of Jordan Brand heritage being adapted for genuine industrial performance.

There’s currently no indication that this pair will see a public release, with the model expected to remain exclusive to the team. Still, its existence signals Jordan Brand’s continued push into motorsport culture – expanding the Jumpman legacy well beyond hardwood and lifestyle rotation.

Still got gas in the tank for more? Make sure to check out our brief history of sneakers in motorsport.