BREAKING: NASCAR’s Brian France stepping away as Chairman and CEO of family business

By Jerry Jordan, Editor

In the wake of charges of aggravated driving while intoxicated and criminal possession of a controlled substance, NASCAR Chairman and CEO Brian France is stepping away from his role at the company, Kickin’ the Tires has learned.

“I apologize to our fans, our industry and my family for the impact of my actions last night. Effective immediately, I will be taking an indefinite leave of absence from my position to focus on my personal affairs,” France stated in a release sent out by the sanctioning body.

France was arrested Sunday night in Sag Harbor, N.Y. by local authorities after he was reported to have driven through a stop sign. On the ensuing traffic stop, France was given a field sobriety test, which he failed. According to a press release from the department, “Mr. France was observed operating a 2017 Lexus northbound on main street failing to stop at a duly posted stop sign. Upon traffic stop it was determined that Mr. France was operating said vehicle in an intoxicated condition. Upon search of his person due to a lawful arrest Mr. France was in possession of oxycodone pills.”

France, 56, has served as Chairman and CEO of the sport’s sanctioning body since 2003 when he was promoted to the position by his father, Bill France Jr., who resigned from NASCAR in 2000 and promoted Mike Helton to the role of president.

Since taking on the leading role in NASCAR, Brian France has put together two major television packages and secured entitlement sponsorship for the Cup Series from Monster Energy. In addition, he is credited with creating the truck series, which is currently sponsor by Camping World, and has been called one of the best racing series in NASCAR’s arsenal.

Jim France, who is currently the NASCAR vice-chairman and executive vice-president will take over. He is Brian France’s uncle.

“Brian France has taken an indefinite leave of absence from NASCAR as chairman and chief executive officer. Effective immediately, NASCAR Vice Chairman and Executive Vice President Jim France has assumed the role of interim chairman and chief executive officer,” a release from NASCAR states.