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Billionaire Profile
James France
Global Rank
#2342

Image: Unknown authorUnknown author | Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

James France

CEO, NASCAR
UNITED STATES
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.771B
Estimated based on NASCAR stock value as of April 20, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
81
Source
Nascar, racing
Industry
sports
Citizenship
UNITED STATES

Biography

James Carl France (born October 24, 1944) is an American motorsports executive and a pivotal figure in the world of NASCAR. With an estimated net worth of 1.8 billion USD, he is a major stakeholder in NASCAR, a company founded by his father, William France Sr. France has been deeply involved in NASCAR's operations since the late 1950s. He is the current Chairman and CEO of NASCAR, playing a crucial role in shaping the sport's direction. He has overseen significant strategic initiatives, including the expansion of NASCAR's presence through track ownership and sports car racing, and the implementation of important structural transformations. France's leadership has helped NASCAR remain a prominent force in American motorsports and a global entertainment entity.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 4/20/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

James Carl France was born on October 24, 1944, in Daytona Beach, Florida. He is the son of NASCAR founder Bill France Sr. and Betty Jane France. He attended Seabreeze High School and graduated from Florida Southern College with a business degree in 1968. Growing up immersed in the world of racing, France began working for his father at International Speedway Corporation (ISC) in 1959 at the age of 14.

Rise to Success

France's career progressed through various positions at ISC, including President and CEO. He inherited control of NASCAR and ISC with his brother, Bill France Jr., upon their father's death in 1992. Jim served as an influential advisor to his brother during his tenure as NASCAR President and CEO. In 2018, James France assumed the role of Interim CEO and Chairman of NASCAR following the arrest of his nephew Brian France, later becoming the permanent CEO and Chairman.

Key Business Strategies

As CEO and Chairman, France has overseen major strategic initiatives, including the acquisition of International Speedway Corporation (ISC), which expanded NASCAR's portfolio to include 13 major racetracks. He has also been instrumental in modernizing the sport, focusing on new competition formats and digital engagement. His leadership style has been described as steady and understated, fostering collaboration and innovation within the racing community.

Philanthropy

Information about his specific philanthropic contributions is unavailable in the search results.

Career Milestones

1959

Began working for International Speedway Corporation (ISC)

Started working for his father at ISC at age 14.

1987

Became President of ISC

Assumed the role of President of ISC.

1992

Inherited control of NASCAR and ISC

Took control of NASCAR and ISC with his brother Bill France Jr. upon their father's death.

1999

Founded Grand American Road Racing Association (GARRA)

Founded GARRA, a sanctioning body for road racing in North America.

2018

Became Interim CEO and Chairman of NASCAR

Assumed leadership of NASCAR following the arrest of his nephew Brian France.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

N/A

Not Available

Undisclosed

Specific philanthropic details are not available in the search results.

Controversies & Challenges

2024

Antitrust Lawsuit Against NASCAR

NASCAR and James France were named in a federal antitrust lawsuit filed by 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports, accusing them of monopolistic practices.

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