NASCAR’s president, Steve Phelps, wasn’t feeling particularly hungry this morning as he sat down for breakfast in downtown Nashville. Stress has been a constant companion, a result of overseeing a sport that spans from February to November and negotiating the intricate media rights deal and charter agreement, both far from straightforward.
“Stressful. This job is stressful,” Phelps mentioned, sipping a decaf coffee with a dash of cream and a sugar packet. “But it’s also incredibly satisfying. I love my job and am grateful for it.”
Phelps, 60, understands the weight on his shoulders. A lifelong race fan, his goal is to instill a daily responsibility among his team to elevate the sport he cherishes.
Denny Hamlin, a top NASCAR star and co-owner of 23XI Racing, acknowledges Phelps’ challenging season. Despite differing perspectives at times, Hamlin respects Phelps’ tireless efforts to enhance the sport, admiring even the smallest touches that show Phelps’ dedication.
Phelps, buoyant on this particular morning, feels optimistic about NASCAR’s future after securing the recent media rights deal, a colossal move involving Fox Sports, NBC Sports, Amazon Prime Video, and Warner Bros. Discovery, with an estimated value of $7.7 billion, marking a near 40 percent surge from the previous agreement.
In a candid sit-down reflecting on the season, Phelps discussed the immense relief post-deal closure and the evolving landscape of the sport, citing a significant shift in trajectory over the past five years.
Looking ahead, the charter agreement tops Phelps’ to-do list, aiming for a positive outcome benefiting race teams and the industry. Beyond that, he highlights the critical integration of stakeholders, a fundamental element crucial for substantial industry growth.
Reflecting on 2023, Phelps reminisced about the Chicago Street Racea moment of overcoming adversity that reshaped perceptions of NASCAR. Despite weather challenges, the event’s success played a pivotal role in securing new partnerships and highlighted the sport’s forward trajectory.
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Our Reader’s Queries
What does Steve Phelps do?
As the President of NASCAR, Steve Phelps is responsible for managing all aspects of the auto racing sanctioning body. This includes overseeing operations, competition, and commercial activities, as well as managing 15 racetrack facilities and the International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) sports car series. Phelps brings a wealth of experience to his role as a board member, and his leadership has helped to shape the future of NASCAR.
Where is the Nascar headquarters?
NASCAR, headquartered in Daytona Beach, Florida, has a strong presence across North America with offices in eight cities. The organization sanctions over 1,200 races in more than 30 states in the U.S., as well as in Canada, Mexico, and Europe.
