CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Brian France, the head of NASCAR, is part of a group that wants to buy the Carolina Panthers with France becoming the new major holder, multiple sources confirmed to NBC Charlotte.

Current owner Jerry Richardson says he will sell the team at the end of the season. This after it was revealed that Richardson reached settlements with four employees over allegations of sexual and racial misconduct.

NBC Charlotte learned in late December a group was being formed to purchase the team, but this is the first big name attached to it.

Late last month, NBC Charlotte reported the Felix Sabates, a minority owner of the Hornets, was putting a group together that hoped to buy the Panthers and keep them in Charlotte in a new domed stadium.

Sabates Wednesday would not comment on France being part of the group. However, three sources, all in positions to know, confirmed to NBC Charlotte that France was part of the group and would be the majority owner if the deal goes through. NBC Charlotte agreed not to name the sources because they were not authorized to speak publicly.

--- WCNC ---

UPDATE: