NASCAR is undergoing a significant leadership transition as Jim France prepares to step down as CEO, ending decades of direct France family control over the racing organization's top executive position.

Steve O'Donnell is set to become NASCAR's new CEO, marking the first time in the organization's history that someone outside the founding France family will hold the chief executive role. The move represents an unprecedented shift for the racing sanctioning body, which has been led by the France family since its founding in 1948.

Jim France, who is the son of NASCAR founder Bill France Sr. and nephew of former CEO Brian France, has served as CEO since 2018. Under his leadership, NASCAR navigated significant challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic and continued efforts to modernize the sport.

O'Donnell brings extensive NASCAR experience to the role, having worked within the organization's executive structure. The leadership change comes as NASCAR continues to evolve its business model and expand its reach in the competitive sports entertainment landscape.

The timing and specific details of the transition have not been fully disclosed, but the change represents one of the most significant organizational shifts in NASCAR's 75-year history. The France family's influence on American motorsports has been substantial, shaping the sport from its early days into the major entertainment property it is today.