By Barry Janof
Photo: NascarJanuary 6, 2026: In a move instigated internally but largely unexpected externally, Nascar said that Steve Phelps “has made the personal decision to step away from the company and his role as Commissioner.”
Phelps joined Nascar in 2005 as vp-corporate marketing, leaving Wasserman Media Group as head of global sales. Prior that, he worked as a marketing executive for the NFL from 1990-2004.
He was named Nascar president in 2018 and to the newly created position of commissioner in March 2025.
Nascar said Phelps would transition out of the company by the end of the month, “leaving a legacy of leadership and a strategic vision that delivered significant growth and lasting innovation, championed equity and social justice initiatives and created industry-wide opportunities for all stakeholders.”
“Steve will forever be remembered as one of Nascar’s most impactful leaders,” chairman and CEO Jim France said via the racing circuit. Steve leaves Nascar with a transformative legacy of innovation and collaboration with an unrelenting growth mindset.”
The decision, however, traces back to the just-concluded antitrust federal trial involving Nascar and Michael Jordan’s 23XI and Bob Jenkins’ Front Row Motorsports, according to AP Sports, “when communications he exchanged with top leadership was exposed.
“In one exchange, Phelps called Hall of Fame team owner Richard Childress ‘a stupid redneck’ who ’needs to be taken out back and flogged.’ That led Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris, an ardent supporter of both Nascar and Richard Childress Racing, to write a letter demanding Phelps’ removal as commissioner.”
Nascar has not unveiled any additional leadership or personnel changes “as Phelps’s departure comes during a time of stability with an exceptional leadership team in place that ensures the continuity of Nascar’s strategic vision and critical execution.
“There are no immediate plans to replace the commissioner role or to seek outside leadership, as the administration of his responsibilities will be delegated internally through Nascar’s president and executive leadership team.”
“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 via the organization. “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.”
Nascar evp-chair Lesa France Kennedy also chose to focus on Phelps’ positive impact rather than the problematic circumstances that seemingly led to his departure.
.“Over his two decades at Nascar, Steve has balanced strong leadership and a consistent pursuit of excellence with a sincere commitment to our fans,” she said via the racing circuit.
“He has helped to bring fans some of the best, most unforgettable moments in our history, and most importantly, he’s laid an incredible foundation for continued growth and success for the entire sport.. . . While his career may take him elsewhere, he’ll always have a place in our Nascar family.”