NASCAR
Steve Phelps Resigning Position as Commissioner of NASCAR
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Effective in late January, Steve Phelps will no longer be NASCAR’s Commissioner. Phelps, 63, has been involved in NASCAR since 2005 and leaves behind a legacy with many high points. Named NASCAR’s President in late 2018, Steve Phelps transitioned to the role of Commissioner in early 2025. Phelps’ tenure atop America’s premier motorsport will be remembered as guided by strategic vision that led to large growth and innovation. He championed both equity and social justice initiatives, creating lasting industry-wide opportunities for all stakeholders. No other leadership changes are expected before the 2026 racing season begins.
“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,” said Steve Phelps. “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.”
Phelps led NASCAR through the turbulent unknowns of the merger with ISC (2019), the COVID-19 Pandemic (2020), and 2022’s introduction of the Next Gen Car. That first highlight brought many racetracks under private NASCAR control, and allowed for greater flexibility with racing at new venues. His tenure also saw new races introduced at the Los Angeles Coliseum, Bristol Dirt, the Chicago Street Race, and Mexico City. Phelps was also a key player in locking down NASCAR’s current media rights deal in late 2023. This record-setting agreement will last through the 2031 season. On the flip side, Phelps was also a central figure in the contentious 2024 charter negotiations. This saga led to a recent lawsuit and settlement in December 2025. Phelps was a witness called to the stand during last month’s litigation.
“Steve will forever be remembered as one of NASCAR’s most impactful leaders,” said NASCAR Chairman and CEO, Jim France. “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 LA 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.”
“Over his two decades at NASCAR, Steve has balanced strong leadership and a consistent pursuit of excellence with a sincere commitment to our fans,” said NASCAR Executive Vice Chair, Lesa France Kennedy. “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. A true consensus builder and passionate advocate, we thank Steve for bringing his intelligence, integrity and love of racing to this sport each and every day. While his career may take him elsewhere, he’ll always have a place in our NASCAR family.”
Rather than announcing a direct replacement, NASCAR has said that Phelps’ past responsibilities will be divided up amongst the remaining executive leadership team. These individuals include sitting NASCAR President Steve O’Donnell, and other members of the France family.
Written by Peter Stratta
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Photo Credits to Chris Graythen/Getty Images
