> At a Glance
> – Steve Phelps resigns as NASCAR’s first commissioner after 20 years
> – Inflammatory texts calling Richard Childress “a stupid redneck” surfaced in federal trial
> – Bass Pro Shops’ Johnny Morris demanded Phelps’ removal after the insults
> – Why it matters: Leadership shake-up comes weeks before NASCAR season starts
Steve Phelps is stepping down as NASCAR commissioner at the end of the month, ending his two-decade tenure amid fallout from a contentious antitrust trial.
The Resignation
NASCAR announced Phelps’ departure after more than 20 years with the organization. He became the sport’s first commissioner last season following interest from the PGA Tour in hiring him for a similar role.
Phelps’ exit comes after the discovery process in an antitrust lawsuit brought by two race teams exposed his private communications with NASCAR leadership.
The Controversy
During revenue-sharing negotiations, Phelps exchanged texts in which he called Hall of Fame team owner Richard Childress “a stupid redneck” who “needs to be taken out back and flogged.”
The messages prompted Johnny Morris, founder of Bass Pro Shops and a major supporter of both NASCAR and Childress’ team, to write a letter calling for Phelps’ removal.
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?”
The Lawsuit Resolution
NASCAR settled with the two suing teams-the day after Morris’ letter:
- 23XI Racing (owned by Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin)
- Front Row Motorsports (owned by Bob Jenkins)
The settlement terms were not disclosed.
Phelps’ Legacy
Phelps joined NASCAR two decades ago after leaving the NFL and worked his way up to the commissioner role. His base salary with bonuses could have reached $5 million annually.
In a statement, Phelps said: “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.”
NASCAR credited Phelps with:
- Transforming a stale schedule with new events
- Creating “bucket list fan experiences”
- Expanding international footprint
- Securing long-term media rights and charter agreements
- Leading NASCAR as first sport to return during COVID-19
- Developing races at the LA Coliseum and downtown Chicago
Jim France, NASCAR Chairman and CEO, called Phelps “one of NASCAR’s most impactful leaders” who “worked tirelessly to thrill fans, support teams and execute a vision for the sport.”
What’s Next
NASCAR has no immediate plans to replace the commissioner role. Phelps’ responsibilities will be handled internally through president Steve O’Donnell and the executive leadership team.
O’Donnell had moved into the president role when Phelps became commissioner last season.
Phelps plans to “seek new pursuits in sports and other industries” and thanked the France family for “having a place in NASCAR’s amazing history.”
Key Takeaways
- NASCAR’s first commissioner exits after private texts insulting a team owner went public
- The scandal prompted major sponsor Johnny Morris to demand his removal
- Phelps leaves with mixed legacy: innovation achievements overshadowed by controversy
- No replacement planned; leadership duties return to president Steve O’Donnell
The timing of Phelps’ departure-just weeks before the NASCAR season begins-leaves the sport navigating a significant leadership transition.
