the new fitness hub at 23xi racing:
a powerful partnership with advantage fitness
23XI Racing, a NASCAR Cup Series team co-owned by Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan, is rewriting the standards for racing team environments. As the team rapidly expanded from a small corporate group of 17 to over 100 employees, the need for a state-of-the-art facility became clear. The result was Airspeed, a 114,000-square-foot headquarters that merges innovation, aesthetics, and functionality, pushing the boundaries of what a racing facility can be. Designed by Denny Hamlin, Airspeed not only serves as a racing shop but also houses an elite fitness space, developed in partnership with Advantage, to support both pit crew members and everyday employees alike.
Revving Up for Fitness
One of the standout features of Airspeed is its fitness training area, which is seamlessly integrated into the overall flow of the building. More than just a gym, this space plays a critical role in maintaining peak physical performance for both pit crew athletes and 23XI drivers. The gym includes advanced strength and cardio equipment provided through Advantage Sport and Fitness’ partnerships with top brands like Precor and Power Lift. Additionally, the gym features a recovery room complete with a sauna, cold plunge tubs, and wellness tools to ensure both performance and recovery are top priorities.
"We wanted a partner who understood the intricacies of our needs, someone who could take our vision and elevate it, working with Daren Burns and Advantage Sport & Fitness was an absolute game-changer for us at Airspeed. From the initial design phase to the final implementation, Daren's dedication to customer service and commitment to excellence truly set them apart." - Mike Larusso, Director of Race Shop Operations, 23XI
Turbocharged Teamwork
The collaboration between Denny Hamlin and Advantage was key to turning 23XI Racing’s vision into a reality. Hamlin’s meticulous attention to detail brought inspiration from elite racing teams and sports organizations worldwide. His passion for creating a sleek, modern, and functional space was met with Advantage’s expertise in gym design, ensuring that every element of the fitness facility supported high-level performance while blending perfectly into the overall design of Airspeed.
The gym’s design reflected Hamlin’s broader vision for Airspeed, with clean lines, subtle branding, and an aesthetic that matched the facility’s high standards.
"Among the multiple big names we approached, Advantage stood out as the clear winner from the drop of the green flag. Their passion for creating an exceptional fitness environment in such a short period of time was truly unmatched. From the 3D renderings to the fine-tuning of every detail, they proved to be the ideal partner for this project." - Mike Larusso, Director of Race Shop Operations, 23XI
Daren Burns and The Advantage team worked tirelessly to meet the high expectations set by Hamlin and the rest of the 23XI team involved in the design process. Through numerous iterations, adjustments, and consultations with strength coaches, Advantage Fitness ensured that the final product was both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Attention to Detail Beyond the Track
Hamlin’s design extends beyond functionality and performance. Aesthetic choices, such as windows angled at 23 degrees, colors inspired by Jordan Brand shoes, and natural light throughout the building, elevate Airspeed to more than just a facility—it’s a space that reflects the culture of 23XI Racing. With amenities like a full-service café, meeting rooms named after racing victories, and wellness areas for both physical and mental well-being, the building was designed to foster collaboration, creativity, and high performance.
Crossing the Finish Line
The completed fitness facility at Airspeed has become a central hub for 23XI Racing. Whether it’s a member of the race team lifting weights, or an employee running on the treadmill, or enjoying the recovery room, the gym has become a place that fosters health and wellness for everyone in the organization.
"We couldn't be happier with the results and the ongoing support we receive," Larusso reflects. "The gym is everything we envisioned and more. Thank you, Daren Burns and Advantage Sport & Fitness, for elevating Airspeed to a whole new level and providing our team with a space that fosters health, wellness, and performance."
This project exemplifies what can be achieved when vision and expertise come together. For 23XI Racing, this state-of-the-art fitness facility isn’t just a perk for employees—it’s an essential part of their team’s success, both on and off the racetrack.