NASCAR Commissioner Steve Phelps is leaving his post

It was a major announcement made by the NASCAR At the end of March 2025, the position of Commissioner was created, in a role similar to those found in American football or basketball. Steve Phelps, the first to hold this position, became the chief administrator of the entire National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, including the management of...IMSA and the fifteen or so circuits owned by NASCAR.

This was also likely a way to show their teeth in the face of the revolt led by 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports, who sued NASCAR in late 2024. The trial between the organizer and the teams has since taken place, with an out-of-court settlement ultimately reached, which is seen as a defeat for NASCAR. It only took a few weeks for Steve Phelps to finally decide to resign from his position.

Having arrived in 2005, Phelps will not be replaced as Steward in the immediate future, as his responsibilities will be delegated to several senior executives of the world's leading stock car racing organization. He will remain in his position until January 31st.

"As a lifelong motorsport fan, I am extremely proud to have been the first NASCAR Commissioner and to have led our great sport through so many incredible challenges, opportunities, and firsts during my 20-year career.", said Steve Phelps. “It was an honor to help synthesize the enthusiasm of NASCAR’s long-standing stakeholders with that of newcomers to our ecosystem, such as media partners, car manufacturers, track operators, and the incredible talent in motorsports. As I embark on new adventures in sports and other sectors, I want to thank my many colleagues, friends, and especially the fans who have played such a significant and motivating role in my career. Words cannot express my gratitude for this life-changing experience, for the trust the France family placed in me, and for having a part in the incredible story of NASCAR.”

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