Johnny Morris’s Letter to NASCAR: A Call for Respect and Integrity

Johnny Morris, the founder, majority owner, and CEO of Bass Pro Shops, recently shared a passionate letter directed at NASCAR and the France family, highlighting the disrespectful comments made by NASCAR leadership regarding long-standing team owner Richard Childress. The controversy arose from text messages revealed during the ongoing antitrust lawsuit involving 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports against NASCAR. In these messages, NASCAR Commissioner Steve Phelps displayed a blatant lack of respect and contempt for Childress, who has been an influential figure in the sport since the 1960s.

The Controversial Comments Against Richard Childress

Richard Childress, a six-time Cup Series champion and a key player in NASCAR’s history, was subjected to derogatory remarks in these communications. Phelps referred to Childress using terms such as "idiot" and "redneck," and suggested that he "needs to be taken out back and flogged." The tone used in these messages indicated a dismissive attitude towards Childress, with comments such as, "If he’s that angry (and apparently he is), sign your charter extension and sell. He’s not smart, is a dinosaur, and a malcontent. He’s worth a couple hundred million dollars—every dollar associated with NASCAR in some fashion. Total ass-clown."

In light of these disparaging remarks, Childress is considering pursuing legal action against NASCAR. He also provided testimony in the trial concerning the 2025 Charter Agreement involving 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports.

Morris’s Response: A Defense of Integrity and Respect

While Morris’s letter does not explicitly call for Phelps’s resignation, it strongly suggests that he believes the Commissioner should be held accountable for his statements. Morris expressed deep concern from the conservation community, labeling the comments about Childress as "shockingly offensive and false." He argued that such disrespect poses a significant threat to the integrity of NASCAR, as these are the individuals responsible for officiating and determining penalties within the sport.

Bass Pro Shops has been a long-time supporter of NASCAR, partnering with Richard Childress Racing and the No. 3 car driven by Austin Dillon. The brand also collaborates with Chase Briscoe and Joe Gibbs Racing’s No. 19 Cup team, among other initiatives in the racing world. Morris’s commitment to NASCAR spans nearly three decades, and his friendship with Childress adds a personal dimension to his outrage.

A Personal Connection to NASCAR

Morris began his letter by sharing his personal journey as a NASCAR fan, dating back to his childhood in Springfield, Missouri. He reminisced about attending races with his grandfather, Will, who worked for the Frisco Railroad. Together, they watched iconic drivers like Willie Crane, Mark Martin, Ken Schrader, and the Wallace brothers compete, all while rooting for their local hero, Larry Phillips.

He highlighted the significance of NASCAR to Bass Pro Shops and its customers, emphasizing that the sport resonates deeply with the company’s core audience—180 million outdoor enthusiasts and 60 million hunters and anglers in America. Morris articulated his pride in sponsoring NASCAR and supporting Richard Childress and his family, especially his grandson Austin Dillon.

The Importance of Richard Childress

In his letter, Morris praised Childress as a friend and a leader in the NASCAR community. He described him as "a fierce competitor" and "a passionate advocate for outdoor enthusiasts and conservationists." Childress’s dedication to the sport and his contributions to the conservation movement position him as a respected figure not only in racing but also within the broader community.

Morris pointed out that attacking Richard Childress is akin to undermining one of NASCAR’s foundational pillars. He expressed outrage at the comments made by Commissioner Phelps, emphasizing that Childress has played a crucial role in promoting and building NASCAR over the years. Morris argued that the disrespect shown by Phelps only serves to discredit himself and the sport as a whole.

Concerns Over Fairness and Objectivity

Morris raised concerns among his colleagues and partners about Phelps’s ability to remain fair and impartial in enforcing NASCAR’s rules and regulations. The derogatory remarks about Childress have led many to question whether the Commissioner and his team can objectively assess fines and penalties, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of the sport.

He made an analogy to Major League Baseball, suggesting that if a new commissioner were to publicly disrespect legendary figures like Willie Mays or Hank Aaron, the backlash from fans would be immediate and severe. Such disrespect could jeopardize the commissioner’s position and damage the sport’s reputation.

A Message to the France Family

Morris’s letter also conveyed a message of respect towards the France family, the founders of NASCAR. He acknowledged their commitment to the sport and their values, including faith, patriotism, and honoring veterans. Morris expressed his hope that the France family and other team owners would carefully consider the ongoing conflict and its impact on NASCAR.

He urged them to strive for compromise and work together to resolve the disputes that threaten the sport’s future. Morris emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration among all stakeholders to preserve the legacy of NASCAR and ensure a positive trajectory moving forward.

The Future of NASCAR

Morris concluded his letter by emphasizing the need for NASCAR’s leadership to focus on growth and attracting new fans while not neglecting the pioneers who laid the foundation for the sport. He stressed that the integrity of NASCAR rests on respecting its history and the individuals who have contributed to its success.

Morris’s passionate defense of Richard Childress and his call for respect and integrity within NASCAR reflect a deep commitment to the sport and its values. The sentiments expressed in his letter resonate with many fans and participants who cherish the history and tradition of NASCAR.

In a time when conflicts and controversies can threaten the foundations of sports, Morris’s letter serves as a reminder of the importance of respect, collaboration, and integrity in nurturing the spirit of competition that has made NASCAR a beloved institution in American culture.