The story of Hendrick Motorsports goes back to 1976, when Rick Hendrick opened a small car dealership on Bennett Parkway in North Carolina called Hendrick Automotive. Over time, his businesses expanded far beyond selling cars, and Hendrick Motorsports eventually became one of the most successful and influential teams in NASCAR. Today the organization holds major power in both racing and the automotive world. Recently, though, newly released government documents revealed an unexpected federal connection that has surprised many fans and critics.

According to the records, Hendrick Motorsports Technical Solutions agreed to a $2.25 million contract with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in August 2025. The deal provided 25 unmodified Chevrolet Tahoes for frontline work. ICE, which handles immigration enforcement during a time of increasing border tensions, often uses such vehicles for patrols, investigations, and transportation.

The revelation has drawn attention because it shows how even a major racing organization can become part of broader government operations. In a political climate marked by sharp disagreements about immigration, the partnership has stirred debate about whether Hendrick Motorsports has unintentionally stepped into the middle of a national issue.

Government documents say ICE approved the contract without competitive bidding because the agency needed the vehicles immediately. The justification stated that any delay would interfere with public safety operations and the effort to increase law enforcement presence.

The contract gained more attention after November 15, when ICE began an operation known as “Charlotte’s Web.” On the first day alone, the operation led to 81 arrests in the Charlotte area. This event triggered a strong mix of support and backlash throughout North Carolina.

Some fans believe the timing of the contract makes Hendrick Motorsports appear to be taking a political position, even though the sale was described as a routine business deal. The concern grew after North Carolina Governor Josh Stein criticized recent actions by federal Border Patrol agents in Charlotte, calling them examples of racial profiling.

A spokesperson for Hendrick Motorsports explained the organization’s role, saying, “Earlier this year, we sold 25 standard Chevrolet Tahoes to the federal government. The vehicles were unmodified, and we fulfilled the commercial sale. We do not participate in or control how agencies equip, brand, or use vehicles after purchase.”

It is not unusual for motorsports companies to sell equipment or vehicles to law enforcement agencies. However, images of the Tahoes being used in Charlotte during immigration operations led to viral reactions online and added more pressure to the situation.

While the contract has caused unwanted attention, it does not overshadow the long-term success of Hendrick Motorsports or the leadership that shaped it. Ray Evernham, the Hall of Fame crew chief who helped Jeff Gordon win three championships with the team during the 1990s, recently spoke about the strength behind the organization.

Following Hendrick’s 15th Cup Series title in Phoenix, Evernham praised Rick Hendrick’s leadership and steady vision. Hendrick founded his racing team in 1984 with a single car and later built more than 100 dealerships while still staying involved in racing operations, even after dealing with knee surgery this year.

Evernham said, “The key person that has always been there with the vision is Rick Hendrick. His commitment and his ability to bring people together and keep that drive going for so many years is pretty amazing.”

He also highlighted the culture that Hendrick created, one that encouraged teamwork, high expectations, and constant improvement. This environment produced stars such as Gordon, Chad Knaus, and Jeff Andrews, all of whom helped bring Hendrick Motorsports to the top of the sport. With 309 Cup Series wins, the team remains one of NASCAR’s strongest forces.

Evernham explained that the group’s success comes from a mindset where second place is never good enough. Over four decades, this philosophy has built a foundation of innovation, strong relationships, and long-term consistency.

The ICE contract has placed Hendrick Motorsports in a rare and uncomfortable spotlight outside the racing world. While the team insists the sale was nothing more than a standard business transaction, the political tension surrounding immigration has created a wave of criticism and conversation.

Still, the organization’s long record of success and leadership continues to define its legacy. For many fans, Hendrick Motorsports remains an example of resilience, teamwork, and innovation, even as it navigates the challenges that come with operating in both business and national attention.