Richard Childress Considers Legal Recourse Following Unsealed NASCAR Executive Communications

Charlotte, NC – Richard Childress Racing (RCR) has announced that legal action is being contemplated following the unsealing of text messages between NASCAR executives Steve Phelps and Brian Herbst, which contained disparaging remarks about RCR team owner Richard Childress. The messages surfaced as part of the ongoing lawsuit filed by 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports against the sanctioning body.

In a statement released on Monday, RCR expressed profound disappointment with the “insensitive and defamatory statements” made about Mr. Childress. The organization highlighted that these comments appear to reflect a historical perspective held by certain NASCAR executives towards team owners who have dedicated significant efforts to the sport’s advancement. RCR also conveyed its disappointment on behalf of the NASCAR fanbase, with whom Mr. Childress reportedly shares a strong connection due to his own humble origins.

“Mr. Childress and the organization will issue no further statements regarding these or other defamatory text messages that have recently surfaced, as legal action is being contemplated and discussed with legal counsel,” the statement concluded, signaling a potential escalation in the dispute.

The specific text messages, unsealed on Friday night and reportedly originating from 2023, reveal NASCAR Commissioner Steve Phelps making highly critical remarks about Richard Childress. In a conversation with Chief Media Officer Brian Herbst, Phelps is quoted as stating Childress “needs to be taken out back and flogged. He’s a stupid redneck who owes his entire fortune to NASCAR.” Phelps further characterized Childress as an “idiot” and suggested that team owners dissatisfied with the sport should “sell (your) charter and get out.” He reiterated his sentiment by stating, “Did I mention that Childress is an idiot?”

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This public exchange appears to stem from ongoing tensions surrounding charter negotiations within NASCAR. Richard Childress had previously voiced concerns about the economics of the Next Gen car platform, asserting in a SiriusXM NASCAR Radio interview that he could construct 14 older-generation Gen-6 cars for the cost of seven Next Gen vehicles. When questioned about the potential benefits of the new television deal, Childress’s response of “for who?” indicated skepticism about its advantages for team owners.

The fallout from these perceived slights has, according to reports, manifested in penalties against RCR-affiliated teams. In 2024, Austin Dillon, driving for RCR, had his playoff status revoked following a victory at Richmond Raceway. This incident involved Dillon crashing both Denny Hamlin and Joey Logano on the final lap in the final corner to secure the win. Similarly, Austin Hill, another driver associated with RCR, lost his playoff points earlier this year after an intentional crash involving Aric Almirola, described as a “right rear hook.”

When questioned about whether these penalties felt personal, Richard Childress alluded to the existence of behind-the-scenes communications, stating he was “just a dumb redneck.” This comment suggested an awareness, at least to some degree, of the sentiments expressed by NASCAR leadership.

Sources within NASCAR have indicated that Steve Phelps had privately contacted Richard Childress to inform him of the impending unsealing of the text messages. However, details of this conversation remain undisclosed.

The controversy adds another layer of complexity to the existing legal challenges faced by NASCAR, particularly the lawsuit initiated by 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports. This lawsuit centers on issues related to the charter system and the financial implications for team owners. The unsealed communications between Phelps and Herbst, and the subsequent reaction from Richard Childress Racing, underscore the deep-seated disagreements and the volatile dynamics present within the sport’s leadership and its key stakeholders.

Richard Childress, a legendary figure in NASCAR with a career spanning decades, founded Richard Childress Racing in 1969. The team has achieved significant success, including multiple Cup Series championships with drivers like Dale Earnhardt Sr., and has consistently been a prominent organization in the sport. Childress’s personal background, often characterized by his grassroots origins, has resonated with a substantial segment of the NASCAR fanbase. The current situation highlights a potential rift between the sport’s established leadership and veteran team owners who have been instrumental in its growth and development.

The legal implications of these unsealed text messages remain to be seen. However, the contemplation of legal action by Richard Childress Racing signals a serious intent to address what they perceive as defamatory conduct. The ongoing lawsuit by 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports, coupled with this new development, could lead to further scrutiny of NASCAR’s internal communications and governance practices.

The situation is developing, and further statements are anticipated as legal counsel is consulted and strategic decisions are made by Richard Childress Racing. The impact of these revelations on the broader landscape of NASCAR, including team-owner relations and the perception of the sport’s leadership, will likely unfold in the coming weeks and months. The core of the dispute appears to revolve around differing perspectives on the sport’s current direction, economic models, and the respect afforded to those who have invested heavily in its success.