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4d ago

Bass Pro Shops Founder Rebukes NASCAR Chief Over Leaked Texts Attacking Richard Childress

The longtime sponsor says the messages raise doubts about fair rule enforcement, threatening the sport’s integrity.

Austin Dillon, driver of the #3 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet Camaro, leads the field during the NASCAR Cup Series Cook Out 400 at Richmond Raceway. Image: Chris Graythen/Getty Images
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Overview

  • Johnny Morris published a letter condemning commissioner Steve Phelps for derogatory texts about Richard Childress revealed in antitrust discovery.
  • Texts cited in the letter show Phelps calling Childress an “idiot,” a “stupid redneck,” a “dinosaur,” and saying he “needs to be taken out back and flogged.”
  • Richard Childress Racing has signaled possible legal action, calling the remarks insensitive and defamatory.
  • The dispute surfaced through the 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports antitrust case over NASCAR’s charter and revenue system, which proceeded to trial before a reported settlement.
  • Morris highlighted Bass Pro Shops’ deep ties to the sport, noting sponsorship of RCR’s No. 3 and partnerships including Chase Briscoe, while questioning NASCAR leadership’s impartiality.