Amid growing turmoil within NASCAR leadership, fans are calling for a new direction, with many rallying behind JR Motorsports leadership in NASCAR as the solution. This surge comes just days before a major antitrust lawsuit heads to trial, with the sport’s top decision makers under scrutiny and loyal supporters demanding change.
An ongoing antitrust case has shaken NASCAR’s foundations, with a trial date looming on December 1st. Revelations from leaked executive messages have further stoked discontent among fans, showing a lack of respect for key veterans like Richard Childress, whose commitment was crucial during NASCAR’s formative years. These controversies have ignited anger among the fanbase, intensifying calls for a shift at the very top of the organization.
Earnhardt Siblings Spotlighted in Wake of Executive Scandals
The current atmosphere at NASCAR is tense, with leaked communications highlighting deep divides between the leadership and long-standing figures in the sport. As these issues have come to a head, attention has turned to Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Kelley Earnhardt Miller, respected co-owners of JR Motorsports. The team’s consistent performance in the Xfinity Series—capturing championship titles in 2014, 2018, and 2024—has drawn admiration for their competitive leadership under challenging circumstances.
Recently, the public conversation gained momentum after a pointed social media post by Couch Racer captured widespread attention:
“If Kevin Harvick would be willing to walk away from all of his NASCAR ventures, he would be the #1 pick to take over as President of NASCAR. Who would you choose?”
— Couch Racer (@CouchRacerShop)
This post dropped at a critical juncture, reinforcing frustrations as fans processed damaging leaks about current executives’ attitudes toward key team owners. Many see the Earnhardt siblings as the antidote, crediting them for keeping JR Motorsports successful while steering clear of the ongoing charter disputes that have engulfed other teams. This rally for Dale Jr. and Kelley resonates in the wake of comments targeting Childress for his refusal to conform with executive demands, bolstering their image as leaders who honor NASCAR’s heritage.
The idea of bringing new faces into the top roles was echoed online:
“If Kevin Harvick were willing to walk away from all of his NASCAR ventures, he would be the #1 pick to take over as President of NASCAR.”
— Couch Racer (@CouchRacerShop)
The momentum drew in respected voices from within racing, such as Kenny Wallace, whose long career and candid commentary lend credibility to the movement. Wallace wrote:
“I agree with this 💯 @DaleJr is smart. Dale Jr. for @NASCAR leadership role 🏁.”
— Kenny Wallace, Cup and Xfinity driver/Broadcaster
Wallace’s endorsement highlights Dale Jr.’s post-racing achievements, from hosting major podcasts to co-owning the CARS Tour with Kevin Harvick and winning Most Popular Driver 15 times. The Earnhardt siblings, drawing strength from their late father Dale Earnhardt Sr., are seen by supporters as capable of mending the rifts exposed by recent scandals.
Supporters and Racing Veterans Rally Behind a Change
The movement for change has sparked a wave of public endorsements and debate. Kelley Earnhardt Miller’s leadership has been widely recognized, with one fan emphasizing her capabilities:
“Earnhardt Kelley would also be good in some sort of top leadership capacity.”
— Fan comment
Kelley has played a vital role at JR Motorsports, notably recruiting Danica Patrick for the Nationwide Series in 2010 and guiding Tyler Reddick to a 2018 title. Her deep experience managing finances and making strategic decisions—including delaying a Cup Series entry due to ongoing litigation—has demonstrated her foresight and discipline.
The discussion hasn’t stopped at the Earnhardts. Another fan offered a broader perspective on who could lead the organization:
“As much as it pains me to type, Denny Hamlin. Experience as a top driver and team owner. Major life changes in the past year. Sick of the current administration (obviously). Also painful, next best, @JeffBurton @DaleJr and @EarnhardtKelley are needed where they are. @KevinHarvick too.”
— Fan comment
This view highlights not just Dale Jr. and Kelley, but also brings Denny Hamlin—co-owner of the 23XI team—as a credible leader. The names Jeff Burton, with his extensive career, and Kevin Harvick, respected in both competition and broadcasting, are also put forward as possible solutions to lead NASCAR out of its current predicament.
The suggestion for collective, experienced leadership found further support in another statement:
“Jeff Burton, Smoke, Harvick, Jr/Kelley, Kyle Busch would be a pool of people I’d like to have involved.”
— Fan comment
Combining Burton’s analytical skills from his driving and broadcast roles, Tony Stewart’s unfiltered style and multiple championships, and Kyle Busch’s decades of winning experience, this group reflects the desire to blend history with a forward-thinking mindset—anchored at the core by the Earnhardt siblings’ appeal.
Speculation on JR Motorsports’ Next Big Move
The speculation isn’t just about leadership, but also strategic direction. As one observer questioned why Dale Jr. and Kelley haven’t yet launched a JR Motorsports team in the Cup Series:
“Also…step back and wonder why Dale Jr. and Kelley haven’t brought a team to the Cup series yet? Maybe the plan is much bigger…to run a series the way Dale Sr. would have. Current overseers in NASCAR would be handing in resignations if Dale Sr. were still alive to witness this crap.”
— Fan comment
The anticipated 2026 Daytona 500 entry for JR Motorsports with Justin Allgaier has fueled rumors that their Cup debut may be strategically timed to coincide with resolution of the ongoing lawsuit and uncertainty around NASCAR’s governance and playoff formats. Many believe such a timing would reflect the same boldness and determination that defined Dale Sr.’s legacy.
Public Sentiment Favors Earnhardts, Especially Kelley
Conversations around the leadership issue have expanded to weigh practicalities and personal choices. One supporter expressed admiration for Kelley’s behind-the-scenes effectiveness:
“I’m seeing a lot of Kelley Earnhardt, and I like it a lot. Jr. would be great, but he’s too enjoyable with Dirty Mo and JR Motorsports, unless he could do it all, which he’s got a young family also. My vote is Kelley if she wants it. Dream world.”
— Fan comment
Kelley’s influence is underscored by her position on the board of sponsor Brandt since 2019 and her central role in key team decisions. Her leadership is credited with providing stability during a period of turbulence, and many fans see her as the most qualified to bring a steady hand to NASCAR’s top job.
What the Future Could Hold for NASCAR Leadership
As uncertainty continues to grip NASCAR’s highest ranks, the fan-driven campaign for JR Motorsports leadership in NASCAR reflects deep frustration and hope for renewal. The antitrust lawsuit and ongoing executive controversies mean the sport is at a crossroads, and the widespread calls for Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Kelley Earnhardt Miller to assume leadership roles encapsulate a desire for experienced, culture-driven management.
The possibility of a leadership shakeup involving racing veterans remains an open question. Yet, the clear message from fans is that a return to NASCAR’s roots and a leadership team steeped in history—embodied by the Earnhardt legacy—could restore trust and unity within the sport. As the December 1st trial approaches, all eyes are on both the courtroom and the response from those who guide NASCAR’s future.
If Kevin Harvick would be willing to walk away from all of his NASCAR ventures he would be the #1 pick to take over as President of NASCAR.
Who would you choose?
— Couch Racer (@CouchRacerShop) November 24, 2025
