Track News: Phoenix Raceway names Latasha Causey as new president

Phoenix native Latasha Causey has been named the new track president at Phoenix Raceway ahead of this weekend’s championship events in the desert.

The longtime community development executive will become the first female Black track president in NASCAR history and the second woman to hold the position at Phoenix Raceway. She replaces the popular Julie Giese, who will finish her term as Phoenix track president over the coming month before fully beginning her new position as track president of the new Chicago Street Course.

“I have been fortunate to call The Valley ‘home’ my entire life, and I could not be more grateful to become the next leader of Phoenix Raceway,” Causey said in a track release. “NASCAR is a sport that brings people together, and as a result, Phoenix Raceway plays a key role in showcasing our great community to visitors across the country every year. I cannot wait to help build upon the great work that’s already been done in making this facility one of the true gems in sports and entertainment.”

Causey, who grew up in the West Valley, has been widely recognized for her substantial work in the Phoenix community and is also a founding member of the NASCAR Accelerators host committee. Established in 2020, the committee is comprised of recognized community and business leaders who serve as Arizona’s ambassadors for NASCAR.

In addition to NASCAR Accelerators, in 2021 Causey was named one of the Most Influential Women in Arizona by AZ Big Media, and in 2018 the Phoenix Business Journal honored her as part of its Outstanding Women in Business Awards. She was also featured in Frontdoors Magazine for her philanthropic accomplishments in 2017.

“Latasha’s track record speaks for itself as a highly experienced executive that prioritizes relationships and giving back to the community – also core values of ours at NASCAR,” said Chip Wile, NASCAR senior vice president and chief track properties officer. “NASCAR and Phoenix Raceway take pride in making a positive impact on the community through creating a best-in-class experience for fans when they visit the track, as well as through actively giving back and playing a significant role as a community partner. Because of these ideals, Latasha is the perfect fit to lead Phoenix Raceway into 2023 and beyond.”

Causey officially will assume her new role on Monday, Nov. 28. But she’s already at Phoenix Raceway this weekend preparing for her new role — and good thing, since Phoenix Raceway has already been announced as the championship venue again in 2023.