Key Highlights
- NASCAR commissioner Steve Phelps resigns one month after an antitrust lawsuit and trial.
- Phelps called Hall of Fame team owner Richard Childress a “stupid redneck” in revealed texts.
- The lawsuit, brought by Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing and another team, was settled but damaged NASCAR’s executive team.
- Phelps testified that his messages were made out of frustration.
NASCAR Commissioner Steve Phelps Resigns Amid Controversial Text Messages
In a dramatic turn of events, NASCAR commissioner Steve Phelps has resigned from his position one month after a contentious antitrust lawsuit and trial raised significant concerns about his leadership. The league announced the move on Tuesday, citing the fallout from the legal battle as the primary reason for Phelps’ departure.
Phelps’ Resignation Amid Trial Revelations
The resignation came just one month after a high-profile antitrust lawsuit was settled between NASCAR and two race teams, including Michael Jordan’s 23XI Racing. During the trial, text messages and emails surfaced that revealed Phelps had called Hall of Fame team owner Richard Childress a “stupid redneck” and “total a— clown,” indicating a level of disrespect that many in the NASCAR community found unacceptable.
These revelations were particularly damaging given Childress’ esteemed position within the sport, owning multiple championship-winning cars. The messages also mentioned plans to “put a knife in this trash series” regarding SRX, a startup racing series viewed as a potential threat by NASCAR. These statements struck many as out of character for Phelps, who was previously known for his steady and consistent approach.
Phelps’ Testimony and Apology
In his testimony during the trial, Phelps admitted that his messages were made from frustration. He apologized to Childress, but the damage had already been done. The private communications between Phelps and other figures within NASCAR highlighted a breakdown in communication and respect, which many believe contributed to the league’s decision to part ways with him.
Phelps’ texts and emails have come under scrutiny for their blunt nature and apparent disrespect towards key stakeholders in the sport. His messages about SRX and Childress were seen as a departure from his previously established image of calm leadership, leading many within NASCAR to question his future in the role.
Impact on NASCAR
While fans certainly turned against Phelps due to his texts, the NASCAR garage is likely to feel more ambivalent about his departure. Denny Hamlin, co-owner at 23XI Racing, praised Phelps as a “huge asset” for NASCAR and called him lucky to have such a leader in place leading up to the lawsuit.
Phelps was known for his public-facing role, often seen walking down pit road before races and speaking on behalf of NASCAR. His departure marks a significant change in how the league will navigate future challenges, especially given the ongoing tensions with teams like 23XI Racing.
NASCAR chairman and CEO Jim France expressed gratitude for Phelps’ contributions over the years, noting his “impactful leadership” during some of the sport’s most challenging times. However, it remains to be seen how the league will address the issues that led to Phelps’ resignation in the coming months.