NASCAR’S commissioner Stephen Phelps has resigned following a lengthy legal battle.

The racing series recently ended a long federal trial against Michael Jordan‘s 23XI Racing that exposed inflammatory texts from Phelps.

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Nascar commissioner Steve Phelps has resigned from his positionCredit: AP

His resignation comes after Nascar’s lengthy legal battle with Michael Jordan’s 23XI racingCredit: Getty

Phelps will leave Nascar at the end of the month, right before the start of the new season.

He was named the first commissioner of the racing series last year.

However, his reputation tanked throughout the trial, as his communications with other Nascar leaders was exposed.

In one thread of messages, Phelps called Nascar Hall of Fame team owner Richard Childress a “stupid redneck” who “needs to be taken out back and flogged.”

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When that was revealed, Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris — a supporter of both Nascar and Richard Childress Racing — wrote a letter demanding Phelps’ removal from his position.

“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 in a statement.

“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.”

Nascar settled its lawsuit with 23XI Racing a day after Morris’ letter was sent.

The racing series will see sweeping changes as a direct result of this settlement.

As for Phelps, he says he is seeking “new pursuits in sports and other industries.”

He thanked racing fans that “played such an important and motivational role in my career.”

Nascar has just about a month to find a new commissioner before the 2026 season begins.

There is no word on if Nascar has any names shortlisted for the position.