Steve Phelps, named NASCAR’s first commissioner just 10 months ago, announced his impending departure from the organization on Tuesday.
Phelps, 63, has been with NASCAR since 2005 and had served as its president from 2018 until his promotion to the newly created commissioner’s role on March 31.
His abrupt exit comes on the heels of last month’s antitrust trial, where inflammatory texts sent by Phelps during earlier revenue sharing negotiations came to light. The texts included Phelps referring to legendary team owner Richard Childress as “a stupid redneck” who “needs to be taken out back and flogged.”
NASCAR and Richard Childress Racing sponsor Johnny Morris, founder of Bass Pro Shops, responded to that ugly revelation by demanding Phelps’ ouster as commissioner. Shortly thereafter, NASCAR settled the lawsuit.
On Tuesday, Phelps said he is stepping away from NASCAR by the end of the month to “embark on new pursuits in sports and other industries.”
“As a lifelong race fan, it gives me immense pride to have served as NASCAR’s first Commissioner and to lead our great sport through so many incredible challenges, opportunities and firsts over my 20 years,” Phelps said. “Our sport is built on the passion of our fans, the dedication of our teams and partners and the commitment of our wonderful employees. It has been an honor to help synthesize the enthusiasm of long-standing NASCAR stakeholders with that of new entrants to our ecosystem, such as media partners, auto manufacturers, track operators and incredible racing talent.
“As I embark on new pursuits in sports and other industries, I want to thank the many colleagues, friends and especially the fans that have played such an important and motivational role in my career. Words cannot fully convey the deep appreciation I have for this life-changing experience, for the trust of the France family and for having a place in NASCAR’s amazing history.”
Achievements during Phelps’ tenure in stock car racing include expanding NASCAR’s international footprint and securing long-term media rights. He also oversaw the merger with International Speedway Corporation in 2019 and launched the Next Gen race car in 2022.
“Steve will forever be remembered as one of NASCAR’s most impactful leaders,” NASCAR chairman and CEO Jim France said. “For decades, he has worked tirelessly to thrill fans, support teams and execute a vision for the sport that has treated us all to some of the greatest moments in our nearly 80-year history.
“It’s been an honor to work alongside him in achieving the impossible, like being the first sport to return during COVID, or in delivering the unimaginable by launching new races in the L.A. Memorial Coliseum and NASCAR’s first-ever street race in downtown Chicago. Steve leaves NASCAR with a transformative legacy of innovation and collaboration with an unrelenting growth mindset.”
NASCAR has not announced any leadership or personnel changes in the wake of Phelps’ announcement. Steve O’Donnell has served as the president since succeeding Phelps last spring.
–Field Level Media
