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TALLADEGA, Ala. – In a significant executive realignment, Jim France, the long-serving Chief Executive Officer of NASCAR, is transitioning out of the CEO role. France will retain his positions as Chairman of the Board of Directors and majority owner of the iconic stock car racing organization, a move confirmed by the sanctioning body on Saturday morning at Talladega Superspeedway. The change marks a pivotal moment for NASCAR as it navigates its future leadership landscape.
France, who is approaching his 82nd birthday later this year, assumed the CEO position in August 2018. His appointment followed the departure of his nephew, Brian France, who had held the role since 2003. Brian France’s tenure ended abruptly following his arrest on suspicion of driving under the influence in Sag Harbor, New York. Jim France’s leadership during this period was characterized by a focus on stabilizing the organization and maintaining its core values while exploring avenues for growth.
Taking the helm as NASCAR’s new Chief Executive Officer is Steve O’Donnell, who previously served as the President of NASCAR. O’Donnell, a veteran of the sport, has been a fixture within NASCAR in various capacities since 1996. His ascension to CEO makes him the fifth individual to hold the position since NASCAR’s inception in 1948, and notably, the first to do so from outside the founding France family. O’Donnell’s career within NASCAR has been marked by a steady rise through the ranks, beginning in the marketing department and accumulating diverse experience across multiple executive functions.
According to an official press release, O’Donnell will be responsible for "assuming all strategic and operational leadership for NASCAR, its affiliated racing series and businesses." This broad mandate suggests a comprehensive approach to managing the multifaceted operations of the premier stock car racing series in the United States. O’Donnell’s background, steeped in the intricacies of marketing, series management, and competition, positions him to address the evolving challenges and opportunities facing NASCAR, from fan engagement and technological advancements to the complex dynamics of team ownership and sponsorship.
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The France family, however, remains deeply entrenched in the operational and strategic direction of NASCAR through other key leadership roles. Ben Kennedy, the great-grandson of NASCAR founder Bill France Sr., has been appointed to the newly created position of Chief Operating Officer (COO). Kennedy was previously the Executive Vice President and Chief Venue & Racing Innovations Officer. His transition to COO signifies a deepening of his responsibilities within the organization. A former competitor himself, Kennedy has experience as a winning driver in both the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and the ARCA Menards East Series, bringing a unique perspective shaped by on-track experience to his executive role.
The continuation of the France family’s influence is further underscored by the unchanged composition of the Board of Directors. Lesa France Kennedy, Ben Kennedy’s mother and Jim France’s niece, continues to serve as the Executive Vice Chair. Jim France remains a central figure on this board, ensuring a continuity of vision and governance.
In a statement released by the organization, Jim France expressed confidence in the leadership transition. "I am incredibly proud of the strength and stability we’ve achieved across the sport, which gives me tremendous confidence in our plan to transition leadership to Steve as NASCAR’s next CEO and Ben as COO," France stated. This sentiment suggests a carefully orchestrated succession plan aimed at ensuring a smooth handover of day-to-day operational control while preserving the long-term strategic direction of the sport.
This leadership shift follows another significant executive departure earlier this year. NASCAR Commissioner Steve Phelps resigned prior to the commencement of the 2026 season. Phelps’ departure occurred in the aftermath of a contentious lawsuit filed by 23XI Racing, which went to trial in December 2025 and was subsequently settled. The role of NASCAR Commissioner has not yet been filled, and its responsibilities have been distributed between O’Donnell and Kennedy, further highlighting the ongoing adjustments within the sport’s administrative structure.
The appointment of O’Donnell and Kennedy signals a new chapter for NASCAR, one that will be shaped by their combined experience and vision. O’Donnell’s extensive tenure and intimate knowledge of NASCAR’s operations, coupled with Kennedy’s background as a former competitor and his recent focus on innovation, suggest a leadership team poised to address the sport’s multifaceted future.
NASCAR, a sport deeply rooted in tradition and family legacy, has seen its leadership evolve over the decades. Founded by Bill France Sr. in 1948, the organization has been predominantly steered by members of the France family. This latest executive reshuffle, while maintaining the France family’s ultimate ownership and board-level control, introduces an external CEO, a move that could signify a strategic pivot towards broader management expertise and potentially a wider perspective on the sport’s global appeal and commercial future.
The timing of this announcement, made at Talladega Superspeedway, a track synonymous with NASCAR’s history and its passionate fanbase, underscores the sport’s ongoing connection to its roots. Talladega has been a stage for some of NASCAR’s most memorable moments, and its presence at the announcement of this leadership transition serves as a reminder of the enduring spirit of competition that defines the sport.
Looking ahead, the leadership of O’Donnell and Kennedy will be crucial in navigating the complex landscape of modern motorsports. Key challenges include adapting to evolving fan demographics, embracing new technologies such as hybrid powertrains and advanced analytics, and maintaining the sport’s appeal in a crowded entertainment market. The recent legal challenges and executive changes also indicate a period of introspection and potential reform within the organization.
The outgoing CEO, Jim France, leaves behind a legacy of stewardship during a period of significant transition for motorsports. His leadership has overseen NASCAR’s continued popularity and its adaptation to changing societal and economic conditions. His continued role as Chairman and majority owner ensures that his influence and guidance will remain a factor in NASCAR’s long-term strategy.
The promotion of Steve O’Donnell to CEO represents a significant endorsement of his capabilities and his deep understanding of NASCAR’s operational framework. His experience in various departments has provided him with a comprehensive view of the sport, from the grassroots level to the pinnacle of Cup Series competition. His leadership will be instrumental in shaping the day-to-day direction of the organization.
Ben Kennedy’s role as COO will complement O’Donnell’s leadership by focusing on the operational execution of strategic initiatives. His background as a racer offers a valuable perspective on the needs and desires of competitors, a crucial element in maintaining the integrity and excitement of the racing product.
The distribution of responsibilities previously held by the NASCAR Commissioner, Steve Phelps, between O’Donnell and Kennedy suggests an effort to streamline decision-making processes and foster greater collaboration between key executive roles. This consolidation of authority may lead to more agile responses to the dynamic challenges facing the sport.
As NASCAR looks towards the future, the leadership team of Jim France (Chairman), Steve O’Donnell (CEO), and Ben Kennedy (COO) will be tasked with upholding the sport’s heritage while embracing innovation and growth. The coming seasons will undoubtedly reveal the impact of this executive shift on the direction and evolution of NASCAR. The sport’s ability to adapt and thrive will depend on the collective vision and execution of its leadership in navigating the ever-changing landscape of professional motorsports. The transition, while significant, appears to be a calculated step by the France family to ensure continued stability and forward momentum for the organization they have built and nurtured for generations.
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