🏁 NASCAR Reshapes Its Leadership: Steve Phelps Named First-Ever Commissioner in Historic Move to Accelerate Global Growth and Innovation
In a landmark announcement this week, NASCAR has named Steve Phelps as the sport’s first-ever Commissioner, marking a bold step toward redefining its future on a global scale. Phelps, who has served as NASCAR President since 2018, will now focus on steering long-term strategy, building international partnerships, and elevating the sport’s profile across new markets.
This newly created Commissioner role represents a transformative shift in NASCAR’s leadership structure. Steve O’Donnell, a 30-year NASCAR veteran and key architect behind many of its competitive and fan-focused innovations, has been promoted to President, overseeing all competition and operations across NASCAR’s premier racing series.
Jim France, NASCAR Chairman and CEO, emphasized that the changes are designed to position the organization for sustained success:
> “Steve Phelps is a respected and visionary leader whose passion for our sport is unmatched. With this new structure, we are aligning our leadership team to maximize growth opportunities and deliver on the promise of thrilling racing for generations to come.”
The announcement comes at a time when NASCAR is investing in new markets, technologies, and fan experiences. With Phelps driving the long-term vision and O’Donnell managing the day-to-day execution, NASCAR signals it is ready to evolve while honoring its legacy.
This is not just a promotion—it’s a declaration that NASCAR is gearing up for something bigger.
