Last March, Steve Phelps was named the new commissioner of NASCAR after decades as a top executive at the racing promotion. Today, he’s out.
The company announced in a statement on Tuesday that Phelps is stepping down as NASCAR commissioner and will leave the role at the end of the month.
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“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. 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.”
The Inevitable
Phelps’ resignation comes following stunning revelations during the big court trial between NASCAR and Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing team. Text messages from 2023 revealed that Phelps had some pretty nasty things to say about beloved racing icon Richard Childress. Though the trial was eventually settled out of court, fans refused to forgive him.
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Of course, there are a slew of equally legitimate gripes with Phelps that are completely related to the product on the track as well. There are too many of those to name.
Suffice it to say, fans weren’t exactly pleading for Phelps to stay:
“Haha he makes it seem like it was his decision… nah we know you got run out of the sport after this lawsuit disaster,” one user remarked.
“Just come out and say if you don’t step down you will be fired,” another dared.
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“I hope whoever takes his place puts up plaques underneath his picture like Trump did to Biden. Let them know the real mark (stain) he left on the sport that we’re now attempting to revive our from underneath his pretentiousness and arrogance. Bye Steve. One more Steve to go,” a third wrote.
“He’s NOT a car guy. Good riddance!!”
Feb 12, 2025; Daytona Beach, Florida, USA; NASCAR president Steve Phelps during Daytona 500 media day at Daytona International Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesMark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
NASCAR’s top leadership offered their fond farewells to Phelps and also noted that there will not be any additional changes in the leadeship structure.
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“NASCAR has not announced 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,” the organization said in their statement.
This story was originally published by The Spun on Jan 6, 2026, where it first appeared in the NASCAR section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
