What should have been a proud moment for Michael Jordan quickly turned into online controversy.
On February 15, 2026, Jordan celebrated a major achievement as co-owner of 23XI Racing when driver Tyler Reddick won the Daytona 500. For Jordan, who grew up watching the race, the victory was deeply meaningful. He described the win as gratifying and said he was ecstatic about the team’s success.
During the champagne-filled celebration, cameras captured Jordan interacting with Reddick’s six-year-old son, Beau. A short clip began circulating online, showing Jordan briefly touching the child’s lower back and leg.
The video quickly went viral. Some social media users reacted strongly, calling the moment inappropriate and saying it reflected poorly on him.
Others offered a different explanation. They pointed out that everyone in victory lane had been soaked in champagne and ice. Supporters suggested Jordan may have simply been helping the child remove ice from his clothing after the celebration.
Rapper 50 Cent added to the debate with a critical social media post questioning Jordan’s actions, which further divided public opinion.
Neither Jordan nor his representatives have publicly addressed the video. As a result, a historic racing victory became overshadowed by a brief moment that continues to spark discussion online.