NASCAR majority owner Jim France, 81, steps down as chief executive just weeks after resolving a prolonged legal dispute with basketball icon and team owner Michael Jordan. President Steve O’Donnell assumes the CEO role, marking the first time someone outside the France family holds the position, while France remains chairman. His majority ownership stake stays intact.
Leadership Changes at Talladega
NASCAR schedules the official announcement for Saturday at Talladega Superspeedway in Alabama. Ben Kennedy, France’s great-nephew, advances to chief operating officer.
Jim France has served as chairman and CEO since 2019, following his nephew Brian’s resignation. Bill France Sr. launched the premier U.S. racing series in 1948, with family members always leading until now.
Context from Recent Negotiations
Tough negotiations over the 2025 revenue-sharing deal prompted an antitrust lawsuit from Jordan’s 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports. A December settlement delivers permanent charters to teams, establishing a franchise model and resolving the conflict.
Post-settlement, France and Jordan spoke to media together outside the courthouse. During the trial’s first day, France appeared soft-spoken, required repeated questions, and faced memory lapses before improving on day two.
Earlier this year, NASCAR Commissioner Steve Phelps stepped down after the trial exposed inflammatory texts he sent amid the revenue talks.
