RFK Racing replaces exec who left to become Belichick’s boss – Motorsport – Sports

Chip Bowers has been hired as the new president of RFK Racing, replacing Steve Newmark, who left the NASCAR organization to join Bill Belichick at the University of North Carolina.

Newmark, a North Carolina native, will replace Bubba Cunningham as the Tar Heels’ athletic director next summer. Belichick, who began his first college football coaching role this season, has restricted who is allowed around the North Carolina facility, but will have a new boss in 2026.

RFK Racing has announced that Bowers will fill the vacant role and assume his position on Sept. 22, the day after the upcoming Cup Series race at New Hampshire. “I’m honored and thrilled to be joining one of NASCAR’s premiere (sic) racing teams,” Bowers said in a team statement.

“As both a fan of the sport and a North Carolina native, this is truly a full-circle moment for me in my career. I’m incredibly appreciative of Jack Roush, John Henry, future Hall of Fame driver and owner Brad Keselowski, and our esteemed board of directors for asking me to be a trusted partner in leading the organization to new heights.”

RFK confirmed that Bowers’ role would focus on growing and strengthening corporate partnerships, and driving innovation across the organization. RFK has no drivers in the NASCAR Playoffs this season, as Keselowski, Chris Buescher, and Ryan Preece were below the cut line.

The team has an impressive history, with several Hall of Famers, and Bowers is excited to start his new venture. “RFK Racing has a rich and storied history of excellence both on and off of the track,” Bowers added.

“I’m excited to work closely with my new teammates, our impressive best-in-brand partners, and NASCAR officials in unlocking new opportunities that grow our collective businesses through creativity, innovation, strategic thinking, and the enhancement of the overarching fan experience.

“RFK Racing is realizing an incredible upward trajectory, and I look forward to establishing our team as a true thought-leader and one of the preeminent brands within the industry.”

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Newmark spent 15 years at RFK, but was part of the advisory committee that hired Belichick in the offseason. The Tar Heels are 2-1 under the legendary NFL head coach and produced a statement 41-6 victory against Richmond on Saturday.

“Like many passionate Tar Heel fans, avidly following UNC Athletics has represented a special and unique bond with my family and friends since childhood, and I recognize the role it serves for the university, alumni, community and broader fan base,” Newmark said in a statement.

“I look forward to working with Bubba and the entire Tar Heel Nation to continue to elevate UNC’s status as a premier brand in college sports with top-tier programs across the board and with student-athletes who represent North Carolina’s flagship institution with class, on and off their respective playing fields.”

Newmark will begin as an executive associate athletics director at North Carolina and assume his new role next year. Cunningham will become the senior advisor to the chancellor and athletic director.