"Steve Phelps Appointed as Inaugural Commissioner of NASCAR"
Steve Phelps was appointed as the first commissioner of NASCAR on Monday, with a specific focus on "strategic growth and expanding internationally."
At 62 years old, Phelps had been serving as the president of NASCAR since 2018. In his new position, he will oversee all aspects of the sport, including the International Motorsports Association (IMSA) and the 15 tracks that are owned or operated by NASCAR.
Steve O'Donnell was promoted from chief operating officer to take over as president, responsible for the day-to-day leadership of all three NASCAR national series (Cup Series, Xfinity and Trucks), as well as commercial, media, and track operations. He will also oversee four international series and multiple properties.
NASCAR chairman and CEO Jim France expressed his excitement about Phelps' appointment, stating, "We are thrilled to name Steve Phelps as NASCAR's first Commissioner. His leadership, professionalism, and widespread respect in the sports industry demonstrate his unique value to the sport. With over 50 years of combined expertise, both Steve Phelps and Steve O'Donnell bring immense knowledge, stability, and a commitment to bold racing innovations that will continue to serve fans, teams, and stakeholders for many years to come."
Phelps initially joined NASCAR in 2005.
"I am honored to take on this next role in guiding NASCAR, a sport that I have loved since my father took me to my first race at the age of 5," Phelps said. "I am committed to helping the sport grow and welcome new fans, competitors, and partners, all of whom contribute to the incredible moments that make NASCAR one of the most extraordinary sports in the world. I am grateful to the France family for their unwavering dedication to our fans, their strong leadership, and their stewardship of stock car racing since its inception almost 80 years ago. This sport is truly one of the greatest American business success stories, and I am honored to continue to be a part of its legacy, especially as we look towards a bright future."
O'Donnell will become the sixth president in NASCAR's 77-year history.
"In my 30 years with NASCAR, I have been most inspired by the passion of race fans at tracks all over the country," O'Donnell said. "It has been a privilege to bring our sport to these fans through incredible new venues and innovative, engaging content that showcases the best racing in our storied history. I believe that we are the best in the world at creating 'Bucket List' events that combine sports and entertainment with tailgating, camping, and the most immersive fan experience in sports. I am honored to continue this mission and build upon the collaboration and innovation with our teams and partners to deliver the best racing to sports fans everywhere."
