NASCAR announced the resignation of Steve Phelps, marking the end of his 20-year career with the sanctioning body. NASCAR said the decision was personal. The announcement followed the release of text messages during a federal antitrust trial last month. Those messages included comments about team owners and internal decisions and quickly drew public attention.
The situation sparked wide discussion across the sport. While some fans questioned leadership culture, NASCAR executives released statements that strongly praised Phelps’s impact and leadership.
Phelps also issued a farewell statement that focused on gratitude and reflection. Together, the responses highlighted both the significance of his tenure and the challenges surrounding his exit.
NASCAR leadership responds to Phelps’ exit
NASCAR Chairman and CEO Jim France praised Phelps in the official announcement.
“Steve will forever be remembered as one of NASCAR’s most impactful leaders, France said. 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.”
NASCAR Executive Vice Chair Lesa France Kennedy echoed that message.
“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. 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 day. While his career may take him elsewhere, he’ll always have a place in our NASCAR family.”
Fan reaction and broader response
Fan reaction to Phelps’ resignation varied across social media. Some fans welcomed the change and called for further leadership shakeups within NASCAR, including mentions of other senior executives. Others focused on Phelps’ accomplishments and the impact he had on the modern era of the sport.
Lori Insana wrote, “I think it’s for the good of the sport. Phelps did a lot for NASCAR. He will move on and continue his career and not look back.” Another fan, Papageaorgio, wrote, “He needed to be gone for quite some time!!!” Doc added, “Phelps out is the bare minimum. Others who share his opinion of fans and longtime owners and drivers need to go also.”
Steve Phelps’ farewell and career summary
In his farewell message, Steve Phelps reflected on his time leading the sport and the people who shaped his career.
“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.”
He pointed to the role of fans, teams, partners, and employees in driving the sport forward. “Our sport is built on the passion of our fans, the dedication of our teams and partners, and the commitment of our wonderful employees, he said.”
Phelps said it was an honor to connect long-time NASCAR stakeholders with new groups entering the sport, including media partners, auto manufacturers, track operators, and racing talent. As he looks ahead, Phelps said he plans to pursue new opportunities in sports and other industries.
He closed by thanking colleagues, friends, and fans, adding that he remains deeply grateful to the France family and for his place in NASCAR’s history.