NASCAR has a new CEO in 2026. Steve O’Donnell, who served as NASCAR’s president, has been promoted to CEO after Jim France stepped down, the sport announced. O’Donnell is the first person outside of the France family to hold the CEO title in NASCAR. Ben Kennedy, France’s great-nephew, has also been promoted to chief operating officer.
O’Donnell has been with NASCAR for over 30 years and provides a refreshed perspective to the leadership room. NASCAR has dealt with several leadership changes following the sports antitrust lawsuit against 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports. France stepped down as CEO, while Steve Phelps resigned as commissioner before the 2026 season.
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There is a lot of excitement around O’Donnell’s promotion, as he is well respected around NASCAR. The future of NASCAR gained a big boost over the weekend, as the new CEO hopes to bring the sport back to its roots. O’Donnell wants to “make some moves” to accomplish this goal.
More: NASCAR to further inspect Kyle Busch’s No. 8 car after Talladega
This article originally appeared on Motorsports Wire: NASCAR reveals new CEO after Jim France shockingly stepped down
