NASCAR is entering a pivotal transition as leadership changes reshape the sport’s direction on and off the track. The governing body confirmed the departure of race director Jusan Hamilton, a groundbreaking figure whose decisions often sparked intense debate, while long-time executive Chip Wile prepares to step down after years of influential service. These moves arrive alongside active discussions to overhaul the playoff format, signaling a future where both operational control and championship structures may look very different.
Key Highlights
- NASCAR parts ways with race director Jusan Hamilton after a tenure marked by controversial calls.
- Tim Bermann is expected to oversee remaining 2025 races as race director.
- Senior executive Chip Wile will leave at the end of the 2025 season after years of leadership at NASCAR-owned tracks.
- Ben Kennedy will assume oversight of NASCAR’s track operations moving forward.
- Championship format changes, including a potential return to full-season points, are under serious consideration.
Hamilton’s Exit From the Control Tower
Race directors have long been central to NASCAR’s fairness and safety, wielding authority to decide cautions, penalties, and restarts. Jusan Hamilton, who made history in 2022 as the first Black race director for the Daytona 500, became one of the most scrutinized figures in the sport. His tenure featured memorable moments, including a controversial call during the 2025 Duel at Daytona when a final-lap caution froze the field and handed Austin Cindric a disputed win over Erik Jones. NASCAR confirmed Hamilton’s departure without offering details, though sources indicated the move was not performance-related. Tim Bermann, the other full-time race director, is expected to guide the remaining races of the 2025 season.
NASCAR has parted ways with race director Jusan Hamilton. NASCAR confirmed he is no longer with the company but would not elaborate. My understanding is the decision was not performance related.
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) September 26, 2025
Chip Wile’s Impact and Departure
The leadership shift extends beyond race control. Chip Wile, NASCAR’s chief track properties officer, announced he will step down at the close of the 2025 season. Wile has overseen NASCAR’s expansive network of tracks since 2021, traveling more than 200 days a year to manage operations at over a dozen venues. His influence touched nearly every part of the schedule, from integrating experimental events at the L.A. Coliseum and Chicago street course to ensuring traditional stops like Daytona and Darlington retained their prestige.
“What the FRANCE family has done for me and our family is beyond measure. They have changed our life and I am so grateful. But at some point you have to take a step back and say, ‘I’ve got four years left with my boys (before college) and being on an airplane every weekend isn’t what I want to be doing.’ … It’s an honor to work in the sport, but everything in life comes with some sort of sacrifice.” – Chip Wile
Wile’s career began on the team side with Bill Davis Racing and Turner Motorsports before he rose through the ranks to lead Darlington Raceway, create the track’s first throwback weekend in 2015, and later become president of Daytona International Speedway. His steady guidance during experimental scheduling helped NASCAR navigate a changing landscape with confidence and creativity.
Ben Kennedy Steps Forward
With Wile departing, Ben Kennedy will assume oversight of NASCAR’s track operations. Kennedy’s growing influence reflects the organization’s desire to blend tradition with innovation. Wile expressed confidence in the transition.
“It’s time. Ben is going to do incredible things for the sport. It’s just time for me to do something else.” – Chip Wile
Kennedy’s role will shape the future of both permanent tracks and temporary venues as NASCAR explores new markets and fan experiences. His leadership is expected to guide the sport through the next phase of expansion while preserving the consistency Wile established.
Playoff Format Debate Intensifies
As these leadership changes unfold, NASCAR is actively reviewing its championship format. Following Joey Logano’s controversial 2024 Cup Championship, which featured the worst average finish for a title winner, pressure has mounted to revisit the one-race finale. Members of the Championship Format Committee have steadily shifted toward supporting a full-season points system, last used in 2003, or a hybrid that rewards both wins and consistency.
“I would be very surprised if the one-race championship is still around.” – Mike Forde
“And I think ultimately, I think you can hit on a championship here that gives everybody a little bit of what they want… Those kind of moments, I think you can still have. I feel like the direction that NASCAR’s headed in is going to be a good balance for that.” – Jordan Bianchi
Proposals include increasing the value of race wins, altering playoff points, or creating a four-race finale to preserve high stakes while recognizing season-long excellence. NASCAR officials intend to finalize a decision after the championship at Phoenix on November 2 to avoid undermining this year’s title fight.
News in Brief: Race Director Exit and Playoff Talks Mark NASCAR Transition
NASCAR confirmed the departure of race director Jusan Hamilton, ending a tenure marked by historic milestones and controversial calls. Tim Bermann will handle race director duties for the rest of 2025. Chief track properties officer Chip Wile announced his exit after the season, with Ben Kennedy set to take over track operations. Amid these leadership changes, officials are considering a major championship format overhaul, potentially returning to a full-season points system. Follow NASCAR’s evolving leadership and playoff decisions to stay informed as the 2026 season takes shape and new rules emerge.
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