NASCAR promotes President Steve Phelps to newly created role as replacement named

NASCAR has announced that Steve Phelps, who has held the role of President of the sport since 2018, has taken up the newly-created role of Commissioner of NASCAR. 

In his new role, he will oversee all aspects of NASCAR, including the 15 NASCAR-owned or operated tracks, and the International Motorsports Association, with a focus on growth and international expansion. As a result of Phelps' move, current chief operating officer Steve O'Donnell has been promoted to President. O'Donnell will take on the everyday management responsibilities of the sport.

NASCAR Chairman and CEO Jim France commented on the management changes, stating:

“We are thrilled to name Steve Phelps as NASCAR’s first Commissioner. His leadership, professionalism and well-earned respect from across the sports industry speak to his unique value for the sport.

“With more than 50 years of expertise between them, both Steve Phelps and Steve O’Donnell bring tremendous expertise, stability and a commitment to the bold racing innovations that will continue to serve fans, teams and stakeholders for many years to come.”

Phelps shared his excitement for his new prestigious role, commenting:

“I’m honored to take this next step in helping to guide NASCAR, the sport I’ve loved since my father took me to my first race at 5 years old, continue to grow and welcome new fans, competitors and partners that together create some of the most extraordinary moments in sports.

NASCAR President Steve Phelps

Photo by: James Gilbert / Getty Images

“I cannot thank the France family enough for their unwavering commitment to our fans, their steady leadership, and most importantly, their stewardship of stock-car racing since its inception nearly eight decades ago. This sport is truly one of the great American business stories and I’m privileged to continue as part of that legacy – and especially its bright future.”

O'Donnell, who has become the sixth President of NASCAR, shared:

“In my 30 years in NASCAR, I’ve been most inspired by the passion of race fans at tracks across the country. It has been a privilege to help bring our sport to those fans through incredible new venues and innovative engaging content that showcase the best racing in our storied history.

“I believe we’re the best in the world at creating ‘Bucket List’ events that merge sports and entertainment with tailgating, camping and the most immersive fan experience in sports. I’m honored to continue that mission and build upon the collaboration and innovation with our teams and partners to deliver the best racing to sports fans everywhere.”