Phelps Resigns as NASCAR Commissioner Amid Controversy

Despite the NASCAR press release below that says Steve Phelps decided to step away from NASCAR, rest assured he was asked to leave because his position as NASCAR Commissioner was no longer tenable.

–by Mark Cipolloni–

In private text messages from August 2023 that were unsealed in late 2025 as part of the 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR, NASCAR president (now former commissioner) Steve Phelps referred to Hall of Fame team owner Richard Childress as a “stupid redneck” who “owes his entire fortune to NASCAR” and an “ungrateful dinosaur.”

Phelps also wrote that Childress “needs to be taken out back and flogged,” called him an “idiot” multiple times, and referred to him as a “total a— clown” in related exchanges.

These comments stemmed from Phelps’ frustration over Childress’ public criticism of NASCAR’s charter negotiations and revenue model during a SiriusXM radio appearance.

The texts were exchanged between Phelps and NASCAR executive Brian Herbst, and their revelation sparked significant backlash, including statements from Childress and Richard Childress Racing expressing deep disappointment, considerations of legal action, and criticism from sponsors like Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris.

The controversy contributed to Phelps announcing his resignation on January 6, 2026, amid fallout from the trial and these messages.

Many in the NASCAR community viewed the remarks as disrespectful to a legendary figure who helped build the sport, with “stupid redneck” being particularly highlighted as derogatory and out of touch.

His remarks were a key part of NASCAR losing the lawsuit.

NASCAR Press Release

NASCAR today announced that Steve Phelps has made the personal decision to step away from the company and his role as Commissioner of America’s top motorsport. Phelps, who joined NASCAR in 2005, will 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.

“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.”

Under Phelps’s leadership, the sport has transformed its annual schedule with extraordinary new events and ‘bucket list’ fan experiences, reshaped its strategic vision, expanded its international footprint, secured long-term media rights and charter agreements and assembled a world-class leadership team focused on building the future of stock car racing with fan experience at its core. Among his most important priorities has been welcoming all fans into NASCAR. His other achievements include the integration of NASCAR’s landmark merger with ISC, launching the record-setting Next Gen race car in 2022 — only the seventh new vehicle in the sport’s history — and many other accomplishments that position the sport for continued success.

“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.”

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.