Jeff Gordon, former Hendrick Motorsports driver and current vice chairman, recently addressed the transition period NASCAR faces after the exit of Commissioner Steve Phelps, underscoring the challenges of leadership changes. In an interview that spotlighted the recent lawsuit settlement involving 23XI Racing, Front Row Motorsports, and the governing body, Gordon reflected on how this transition could affect the sport, using the phrase “hard to replace” when talking about Phelps’ impact.
The scale of change comes as NASCAR prepares for the 2026 season following a legal dispute that began in October 2024. 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports accused NASCAR of anticompetitive practices, leading to a lawsuit alleging monopolistic behavior. While the legal confrontation generated significant attention, it reached resolution after Steve Phelps, who had been with NASCAR since 2005, testified in court. His testimony marked a turning point, resulting in a settlement and eventually his departure from the stock car racing association.
The Backstory of Phelps’ Resignation and Fallout
The aftermath of the lawsuit was further complicated by revelations surrounding Steve Phelps’ private discussions with Brian Herbst, which were made public and led to intense criticism. This backlash amplified the pressure on Phelps, contributing to his decision to step down from his leadership position.
Offering his perspective, Jeff Gordon remarked on Phelps’ approach and contributions to the organization:
“Steve brought a very pragmatic, steady approach. He listened to the sport’s stakeholders, wasn’t afraid to ask hard questions, and genuinely wanted to make NASCAR better at every level.”
– Jeff Gordon, Vice Chairman, Hendrick Motorsports
Gordon continued by highlighting Phelps’ ability to guide the sport through the global COVID crisis and navigate relationships within the racing community:
“His leadership during COVID was a defining example, navigating unprecedented uncertainty and helping the sport move forward at a historic moment in time. Steve has a unique ability to move comfortably between different groups, from broadcast partners, OEMs, and competitors to tracks, sponsors, and members of the media. That will be hard to replace.”
– Jeff Gordon, Vice Chairman, Hendrick Motorsports
Phelps’ Tenure and the Road Ahead for NASCAR
Before leading NASCAR, Steve Phelps built his career at the NFL, eventually joining NASCAR in 2005. Over nearly two decades, he launched new racing events and played a pivotal role in reviving stock car racing during the pandemic, a feat widely recognized in the industry. The association’s current challenge lies in ensuring a smooth organizational transition and maintaining momentum as a new era begins.
Gordon’s Legacy and His Return to Hendrick Motorsports
Jeff Gordon, a central figure in the history of Hendrick Motorsports, began his professional journey in stock car racing with the team in 1992, piloting the #24 Chevy. Over his career as a driver, he garnered four Cup Series championship titles and an impressive tally of victories that contributed significantly to HMS’s reputation in the racing world.
Gordon stepped away from driving in 2015, taking a broadcasting role with FOX Sports for six years before returning to Hendrick Motorsports as vice chairman in 2021. His emotional connection to the organization remains deep, as he explained in a recent statement:
“I cannot put into words what Hendrick Motorsports means to me. In many ways, it’s my home, and the people here are my family. I’ve never lost my passion for the organization, for our sport, and for the sheer challenge of racing and winning at the highest level. Being part of the competition is where I’m happiest and feel I can make the biggest contribution to the continued, long-term success of the team.”
– Jeff Gordon, Vice Chairman, Hendrick Motorsports
During his storied driving career, Gordon achieved 93 victories, secured 325 top-five finishes, was among the top ten in 477 races, and clinched 81 pole positions over 805 starts. His records include leading nearly 25,000 laps, with average starts and finishes that illustrate his competitive consistency in the sport.
Looking Forward: Impact of Leadership Changes on NASCAR
The departure of Steve Phelps leaves a critical leadership gap at NASCAR as it moves past a challenging legal chapter and aims to sustain its standing as a top stock car racing association. The organization will need to identify a leader capable of balancing the diverse interests of teams, sponsors, media partners, and fans. Figures such as Jeff Gordon and other influential stakeholders will likely play key roles in ensuring continued progress and stability during this pivotal period in NASCAR’s history.
