The recent announcement of NASCAR commissioner Steve Phelps’ resignation sent shockwaves through the racing community, with many now questioning who will fill his key leadership role after January. The news has put a spotlight on Phelps’ immense influence, with figures like Jeff Gordon openly acknowledging his lasting impact—capturing the sentiment around “Jeff Gordon on Steve Phelps” as the community grapples with what comes next.
Steve Phelps’ Departure Sparks Uncertainty in NASCAR
Steve Phelps’ upcoming resignation was prompted primarily by leaked lawsuit discussions that revealed critical remarks he made about Richard Childress, according to reports. This development caught many within NASCAR off guard and continues to divide opinions within the sport. Despite a handful of well-publicized missteps, Phelps is widely regarded as one of the most significant forces in NASCAR’s modern era, having overseen the organization during turbulent times and helping chart its path forward.
Within the racing world, Phelps’ ability to connect diverse stakeholders—from team owners to broadcasters and sponsors—made him especially valuable. Hendrick Motorsports Vice Chairman Jeff Gordon was one of the first to publicly reflect on Phelps’ legacy, focusing on the steady leadership approach that steered NASCAR through some of its most demanding periods.
“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. His leadership during COVID was a defining example — navigating unprecedented uncertainty and helping the sport move forward at a historic moment in time.”
Jeff Gordon via SBJ.
Phelps earned admiration for his efforts throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, when he was confronted with challenges few sports had ever faced. According to Gordon, what set Phelps apart was his calm, communicative style, which enabled tough conversations to happen productively across the sport.
The Importance of Relationship Building in NASCAR Leadership
Phelps was frequently the main bridge between critical sectors within NASCAR. He maintained important communication lines with broadcasters, original equipment manufacturers, teams, and the sponsors who keep the circuits thriving. Jeff Gordon highlighted that few could fill this role with Phelps’ unique ease and versatility.
“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…At the same time, this marks a necessary transition point.”
Jeff Gordon added.
The connections and influence established during Phelps’ tenure are seen as integral to NASCAR’s recent growth, with Gordon crediting him for creating a collaborative environment. This ability to work seamlessly across departments and organizations proved invaluable as NASCAR adopted modern strategies and pursued new audiences.
Phelps’ Lasting Legacy and The Path Forward
Jeff Gordon’s perspective underscores the widespread respect for Steve Phelps, pinpointing how his decision-making and foundational work laid the groundwork for NASCAR’s future successes. Gordon remarked that Phelps not only positioned the sport for its next evolution but also encouraged risk-taking and made efforts to broaden its appeal, ensuring its relevance in a changing entertainment landscape.
“Steve helped position NASCAR for its next chapter, and now it’s on the leaders across the industry to step up, build on that foundation and keep the sport moving forward. He pushed NASCAR to take smart risks and be more welcoming to new and existing fans, and I believe that will have a lasting influence.”
Jeff Gordon asserted.
As NASCAR prepares for this transition period, the culture of innovation and openness fostered under Phelps’ watch is expected to influence whoever takes up the mantle next. While his resignation marks a turning point, the foundation he leaves should provide stability and direction for the next crop of industry leaders.
Brad Keselowski Recognizes the Loss to the Community
Another influential voice, 2012 Cup champion and RFK Racing owner Brad Keselowski, has weighed in on the impact of Phelps’ departure. Keselowski recalled Phelps’ role in major initiatives spanning more than a decade, emphasizing not just his professional contributions but also the personal relationship they shared throughout their years in the sport.
“Steve has been a big part of a number of key initiatives for sport for the last dozen plus years, as I recall. I’ve enjoyed a great personal relationship with him. The sport’s going to miss him. Like anybody in that position, you’re not going to bat 100 percent, and I think there’s been some wins and losses. But as a whole, I appreciate what he’s brought to our sport. And I’m kind of sad to see him go, but life has its changes.”
Brad Keselowski told Bob Pockrass.
Keselowski’s tribute illustrates the sense of loss felt by much of the NASCAR community, highlighting how Phelps’ personal and professional influence extended far beyond day-to-day operations. The honesty in acknowledging the ups and downs of Phelps’ leadership points to a nuanced legacy, where both achievements and mistakes are part of a broader story of growth for the organization.
NASCAR’s Future Leadership and the Road Ahead
Now, as NASCAR plans its future, the onus falls on leaders like Jim France and Ben Kennedy to build upon the stability and vision set in place by Steve Phelps. The challenges will be substantial, with the sport still evolving rapidly in response to shifting fan demographics, technology, and competition. However, Phelps’ legacy of pragmatic leadership and open communication offers a roadmap for moving the series forward.
The collective respect for Phelps demonstrated by Jeff Gordon, Brad Keselowski, and others shows how deeply the racing community values leadership that is both principled and adaptable. The community now looks ahead with anticipation and some concern, as the void left by Phelps presents both a challenge and an opportunity for NASCAR’s next generation of leaders to define its trajectory in a changing sports landscape.
Brad Keselowski on the resignation of NASCAR commissioner Steve Phelps and the new charter terms (which are still being finalized with the teams). @NASCARONFOX pic.twitter.com/3K0UvGxUu6
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) January 9, 2026
