...
By Gabe Whisnant
News Editor
0
Share
Newsweek is a Trust Project member
See more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
The fallout from NASCAR’s federal antitrust trial carried into the new year Tuesday as Commissioner Steve Phelps announced his resignation after more than two decades with the series.
Why it Matters
His decision follows last month’s trial, where inflammatory texts he sent during revenue-sharing negotiations were revealed. Phelps will step down at the end of January, ahead of NASCAR’s first exhibition race on Feb. 1. He became the sport’s first commissioner last season after withdrawing from consideration for a similar role with the PGA Tour.
Read More on News
...
What to Know
He said he plans to pursue opportunities in sports and other industries and thanked colleagues, friends and fans for their support throughout his career. Phelps also expressed gratitude to the France family, NASCAR’s founders and owners, who hired him from the NFL two decades ago and later promoted him to a role that could have earned him up to $5 million annually with bonuses.
Phelps faced intense scrutiny during the antitrust trial after private communications with his leadership team were made public. In one message, he referred to Hall of Fame team owner Richard Childress as “a stupid redneck” who “needs to be taken out back and flogged.”
The remarks prompted Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris, a longtime supporter of Childress and NASCAR, to demand Phelps’ removal in a strongly worded letter. After testifying during the nine-day trial, Phelps left the stand with his jaw clenched and face flushed, avoiding eye contact with NASCAR owners and even his fiancée as he briskly exited the courtroom.
What People Are Saying
Phelps said in a statement, “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. 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 continued, “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.”
“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 concluded.
Jim France, the NASCAR Chairman and CEO said in a statement, “Steve will forever be remembered as one of NASCAR’s most impactful leaders. 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.”
Morris wrote, "We can’t help but wonder what would happen if Major League Baseball brought in a new commissioner and he or she trash-talked one of the true legends who built the game like Willie Mays, Hank Aaron, Ted Williams, Mickey Mantle or Babe Ruth? Such blatant disrespect would probably not sit well with the fans — such a commissioner most likely wouldn’t, or shouldn’t, keep his or her job for very long!”
What Happens Next
NASCAR settled the lawsuit with 23XI Racing, owned by Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin, and Front Row Motorsports the day after Morris’ letter became public and two days after Phelps’ testimony.
NASCAR said Tuesday it does not plan any additional leadership changes and has no immediate intention of replacing its new commissioner or seeking outside leadership. The governing body said the commissioner’s responsibilities will be handled internally by NASCAR President Steve O’Donnell and the executive leadership team.
O’Donnell assumed the presidency after Steve Phelps was promoted to commissioner. Both executives largely supported improving revenue-sharing for teams during more than two years of contentious negotiations, but documents from the discovery process revealed growing frustration with NASCAR’s board of directors over its refusal to make team charters permanent.
This article includes reporting by the Associated Press.
Updates: 1/6/26, 5:01 p.m. ET: This article was updated with new information and remarks.
Updates: 1/6/26, 6:20 p.m. ET: This article was updated with new information.
The news cycle is loud. Algorithms push us to extremes. In the middle—where facts, ideas and progress live—there's a void. At Newsweek, we fill it with fearless, fair and fiercely independent journalism.
Common ground isn't just possible—it's essential. Our readers reflect America's diversity, united by a desire for thoughtful, unbiased news. Independent ratings confirm our approach: NewsGuard gives us 100/100 for reliability, and AllSides places us firmly in the political center.
In a polarized era, the center is dismissed as bland. Ours is different: The Courageous Center—it's not "both sides," it's sharp, challenging and alive with ideas. We follow facts, not factions. If that sounds like the kind of journalism you want to see thrive, we need you.
When you become a Newsweek Member, you support a mission to keep the center strong and vibrant. Members enjoy:
Help keep the center courageous. Join today.
View 0 Comments
Submit Correction
View Editorial & AI Guidelines