Controversy erupted on Friday as Richard Childress, a legendary figure in NASCAR, found himself at the center of the Richard Childress NASCAR controversy following the release of inflammatory text messages from commissioner Steve Phelps during an ongoing anti-trust case. The texts, part of a legal dispute involving 23XI Racing, Front Row Motorsports, and NASCAR, have led to intense backlash within the motorsport community.
Decades of Dedication by Richard Childress
Richard Childress, who began his career in 1969 at Talladega Superspeedway as a relatively unknown racer from Winston-Salem, North Carolina, has left an enduring mark on NASCAR over nearly six decades. Accumulating 285 Cup Series starts as a driver, he later achieved remarkable success as a car owner, earning six Cup Series championships and six NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series titles. In 2017, Childress was rightfully inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame, highlighting his significance in the sport.
Explosive Messages Surface Amid Legal Battle
The recently revealed text messages were submitted as evidence in the anti-trust lawsuit cited above. Within the exchange, Steve Phelps referred to Childress as a
stupid redneck who owes his entire fortune to NASCAR
— Steve Phelps, NASCAR Commissioner — and even commented that he should
to be taken out back and flogged
— Steve Phelps, NASCAR Commissioner, shortly after Childress appeared on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio in August 2023 voicing skepticism about NASCAR’s proposed media deal. The texts were sent to VP Brian Herbst during or after a meeting, and according to Bob Pockrass’ documentation, the material was deemed too inflammatory for jury review.
In an exhibit of texts that the jury won’t get to see because would be used more as inflammatory are some texts showing Steve Phelps frustration over things Richard Childress said in August 2023. Texts are to VP Brian Herbst during/following a meeting (believe with some teams): pic.twitter.com/wWx6mAVuxY
— Bob Pockrass, Fox Sports Reporter
Community Reaction to Steve Phelps’ Remarks
Richard Childress is no stranger to debate within NASCAR circles, especially following notable 2024 and 2025 incidents involving RCR drivers Austin Dillon and Austin Hill, both accused of intentional racing infractions. Despite these controversies, Childress consistently supported his team’s innocence, setting himself apart from mainstream opinions. Still, his dedication and investment in NASCAR are widely recognized.
The revelation of Phelps’ private comments has been widely described as damaging for the commissioner, particularly given Childress’ long-standing service and accomplishments. The timing and nature of the texts have been criticized for undermining the respect Childress has earned throughout his career.
According to Fox Sports correspondent Bob Pockrass, Phelps reached out to Childress before the texts became public, informing him that the sentiments expressed in the messages do not reflect his true feelings toward Childress. This gesture, however, has done little to quell concerns among fans and insiders about the overall impact of the exchange.
Implications for NASCAR’s Leadership and Future
The leak has intensified scrutiny of leadership at the highest levels of NASCAR, raising questions about professionalism, transparency, and the sport’s internal dynamics. For Richard Childress, the situation highlights both his polarizing status and his enduring legacy in motorsports. As the anti-trust case moves forward, the fallout from these messages remains a central topic among teams, fans, and media, with many watching closely to see if further action will be taken regarding Steve Phelps’ conduct.
In an exhibit of texts that the jury won’t get to see because would be used more as inflammatory are some texts showing Steve Phelps frustration over things Richard Childress said in August 2023. Texts are to VP Brian Herbst during/following a meeting (believe with some teams): pic.twitter.com/wWx6mAVuxY
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) November 22, 2025
Texts after SiriusXM 8-29-2023 with Dave Moody
Childress said he could build 14 former Cup cars for cost of 7 Next Gen.
Was asked if potential new media deal could be a positive, RC responded: For who?
Fwiw Phelps called RC weeks ago to say he doesn't feel that way about him. https://t.co/kDRKMIXqe9
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) November 22, 2025
