Jeff Gordon recently shared his thoughts on Steve Phelps’ departure from NASCAR, describing him as a force for progress and a figure who will be difficult to replace. The reactions to Phelps’ exit, which was prompted by leaked private messages shortly before a high-profile antitrust lawsuit, have revealed mixed emotions and deep discussions throughout the NASCAR garage.
The abrupt fallout began after confidential communications between NASCAR officials surfaced, showing Steve Phelps using critical language toward veteran team owner Richard Childress. This revelation led to widespread disappointment among fans and team owners and placed considerable pressure on NASCAR leadership, eventually resulting in Phelps stepping down as commissioner. While some in the community saw Phelps’ resignation as a necessary move toward restoring stability, voices like Denny Hamlin and Jeff Gordon highlighted the complexities and weight of Phelps’ tenure.
Industry Leaders Reflect on Phelps’ Departure
Phelps’ decision to step away marked the end of an era spanning more than twenty years in the sport. Many industry insiders felt his exit was more about finding someone to take the blame than recognizing genuine accountability, especially considering Phelps’ accomplishments and influence.
Jeff Gordon addressed the significance of this change for NASCAR.
“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,”
said Gordon.
The four-time champion further noted Phelps’ diplomatic skill set, emphasizing,
“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.
Gordon recognized that NASCAR now faces a turning point, with leaders across the sport needing to build on the foundation Phelps helped shape. Phelps’ push for calculated innovations and his dedication to uniting teams with the organization earned him lasting respect throughout the garage. Even amid the turbulence of the 2024 lawsuit, he maintained crucial links between various stakeholders, leaving a void that will not be easily filled.
Phelps’ Legacy of Innovation and Outreach
Steve Phelps gained a reputation for making NASCAR more inclusive and adventurous. He was visible in the community, routinely walking pit road before races to greet drivers personally, which made him not only a constant presence but also NASCAR’s most recognized spokesperson.
During his leadership, NASCAR expanded its horizons, experimenting with events like the Chicago Street Race, a racing event in Mexico, and the Busch Light Clash held at the LA Memorial Coliseum. Phelps’ influence and credibility were so significant that the organization created the role of commissioner specifically for him in spring 2025. This new title was meant to focus his attention on growing NASCAR both within the United States and internationally.
Since Phelps’ resignation, NASCAR has chosen not to refill the commissioner position, opting instead to place more public responsibility on current executives like Steve O’Donnell and Ben Kennedy. Kennedy, in particular, is expected by many industry watchers to eventually inherit the mantle of leadership as a representative of the France family’s ongoing legacy in the sport.
The Path Forward for NASCAR
Phelps’ leadership style and vision have positioned NASCAR for its next stage of evolution. As Jeff Gordon underlined, the challenge for current and future leaders is to build on the groundwork Phelps set, continuing to take measured risks and fostering unity across the organization. The effects of his departure will be felt for years, particularly in the way NASCAR balances tradition with growth, navigates internal divisions, and connects with fans old and new.
.@JeffGordonWeb: "Steve has a unique ability to move comfortably between … 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." https://t.co/wmWq84gxIR
— Adam Stern (@A_S12) January 9, 2026
