Kevin Harvick has always been one of the more passionate figures in NASCAR. That intensity transitioned from the track and driver meetings to his current broadcast roles.

Steve O’Donnell, NASCAR’s President, was on the receiving end of one of Harvick’s emotional moments, as he recalled on a recent podcast.

“I thought we were going to come to blows,” said O’Donnell, recalling a driver's meeting where he had given Harvick a very particular look.

Speaking on the Door Bumper Clear podcast, O’Donnell described the incident without revealing when it happened. He said, “You tweeted out with that look that I gave in the press conference. I think I gave that look to Kevin, and that was it.”

O’Donnell said he was startled by Harvick’s response, recalling that Harvick approached him and said, “Listen, pal,” which made him think the situation could escalate.

O’Donnell attributed the reaction to mutual passion and noted his respect for the former SHR driver. “I respect the h*** out of the guy because he works hard.” O’Donnell added, “He cares about the sport.”

O’Donnell Talks About Harvick’s Passion

Now a broadcaster, Harvick influenced NASCAR through 60 career wins and a consistently outspoken stance.

Harvick has also provided opportunities for several notable drivers through Kevin Harvick Incorporated, including two-time Truck Series champion Ron Hornaday Jr., as well as Matt Crafton, Clint Bowyer, Elliott Sadler, and Nelson Piquet Jr..

He has also helped drivers like Ryan Preece and Ricky Stenhouse Jr. through KHI Management.

The team won two NASCAR Truck Series driver championships in 2007 and 2009 with Ron Hornaday Jr., and also secured the 2011 Truck Series owner’s championship, and now partners with Rackley W.A.R..

“I wear my emotions on my sleeve too much sometimes. I get that. I’m passionate about the sport. I would say Kevin does the same thing,” said O’Donnell before adding, “Kevin, he’ll always not be afraid to give me his opinion, which I respect.”

Harvick has never shied away from sharing his opinion, and according to O’Donnell, that is better because “the worst part is someone’s quiet.”

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Written by

Debrup Chaudhuri

Edited by

Pulkit Prabhav