NASCAR is set for a significant break from tradition, as longtime executive Steve O’Donnell replaces Jim France as CEO, according to multiple industry sources.
O’Donnell, who has spent three decades within the organization and currently serves as president, will become the first non-family member to oversee day-to-day operations since NASCAR’s founding in 1948. France, 81, will remain as chairman and retain his controlling stake.
The leadership shake-up also includes the promotion of Ben Kennedy to chief operating officer, reinforcing the next generation of the France family within the sport’s executive structure.
The transition marks a pivotal moment for NASCAR, long defined by the France family’s direct control. O’Donnell will now oversee all aspects of the business — from racing series and track operations to long-term strategy — at a time when the sport is stabilizing after securing media rights through 2031 and resolving a high-profile legal dispute involving teams including one co-owned by Michael Jordan.
While the timing follows a turbulent stretch that included executive turnover and legal challenges, O’Donnell has framed the move as part of a long-planned succession strategy rather than reactive change.
The announcement is expected during race weekend at Talladega Superspeedway — a venue deeply tied to the sport’s origins — underscoring both NASCAR’s history and its evolving leadership model.