NASCAR President Steve Phelps Assures Fans About 2025 TV Coverage Amid Major Changes
NASCAR President Steve Phelps addressed concerns about where fans can watch Cup races in 2025 during a session at the Fifth Annual Race Industry Week. With an expanded roster of broadcast partners, Phelps promised clear communication and significant promotion to ensure fans know where to tune in.
In 2025, NASCAR Cup races will be aired across USA Network, NBC, Fox, FS1, Amazon Prime Video, and TNT. Meanwhile, Xfinity Series races will move to The CW Network, and Truck Series races will remain on Fox and FS1. Notably, Prime Video will exclusively stream five Cup races, including the iconic Coca-Cola 600, while TNT will feature five races, including the Chicago Street Race.
Phelps emphasized, “We are going to have a megaphone and blast where these opportunities are for race fans to go and watch our races.” He pointed out the massive promotional opportunities across platforms, including Fox leveraging its broadcast of the NFC Championship Game and the Super Bowl to promote the Daytona 500. “Warner Brothers Discovery, Amazon, and The CW will also significantly promote their NASCAR content,” Phelps added.
Innovation in NASCAR’s Schedule
NASCAR’s evolving schedule continues to make headlines. In 2025, the Clash will move to Bowman Gray Stadium, and the Cup Series will host its first-ever race in Mexico City. The season also marks the third and final year of the agreement to race on the streets of Chicago.
Phelps candidly addressed the financial challenges of the Chicago Street Race, which costs $50 million annually. “We, unfortunately, didn’t sell $50 million worth of tickets and sponsorship, and that’s what it is,” he admitted. However, he credited the event with helping secure partnerships with Amazon and Warner Brothers Discovery. “It showed we are a sport willing to invest in itself and drive innovation,” he said.
Enhancing Fan Experiences at the Track
Phelps also detailed significant investments to improve fan experiences at NASCAR-owned tracks, including Daytona, Phoenix, Talladega, and Martinsville. The focus has been on modernizing amenities and providing high-speed internet connectivity.
“We’ve spent $50 million at our 12 racetracks to install permanent fiber for strong connectivity,” Phelps explained. “Fans expect this. Whether it’s sharing videos on social media or staying connected, it’s an important part of their experience.”
Phelps reinforced NASCAR’s commitment to creating memorable experiences for both new and loyal fans. “How do you create things that are unique and different for new fans and long-term fans alike? That’s what we are going to continue to do,” he said.
With a robust broadcast strategy, innovative scheduling, and fan-first investments, Phelps remains optimistic about NASCAR’s future. “We’re investing in growth and innovation, and we’ll keep doing so to ensure the sport’s continued success,” he concluded.
