FOX Sports Ditches NASCAR, Goes All-In on IndyCar NASCAR Fans Furious and Left in the Dust
The 2025 US motorsports broadcasting scene is undergoing a seismic shift, as FOX Sports secures exclusive rights to broadcast all IndyCar races. This bold move is set to change the game, as FOX doubles down on IndyCar by pouring significant resources into high-profile marketing efforts, including commercials starring reigning IndyCar champion Josef Newgarden. However, NASCAR fans are feeling sidelined, left wondering if their beloved series will continue to receive the attention it once enjoyed.
The Big Move: FOX’s IndyCar Deal
The catalyst for this shift? The $7.7 billion NASCAR media rights deal, which splits 10 of the series’ races between Amazon Prime Video and Warner Brothers, leaving FOX with fewer NASCAR events to cover. This opened the door for FOX to seal an exclusive deal with IndyCar, making it the only US motorsport series fully available on cable TV.
FOX’s Bold Push for IndyCar
FOX is sparing no expense in promoting IndyCar, with flashy ads during NFL playoff broadcasts and leveraging top-tier reporters like Bob Pockrass. The network’s dedication to promoting its new partnership is undeniable, with Jeff Gluck, a respected NASCAR reporter, noting, “This ad is further evidence FOX is really, really going all out for its first year of IndyCar. This is a terrific attention-grabber and exposure.” FOX is making its intention clear: IndyCar is now at the forefront.
NASCAR Fans Feeling Neglected: Where’s the Love?
While FOX throws all its weight behind IndyCar, NASCAR fans are voicing their discontent. Complaints range from poorly timed commercials during crucial race moments to a lack of meaningful promotions for the sport. One frustrated fan stated, “Wish FOX would give NASCAR the same treatment. Advertising feels stale and almost nonexistent, especially with the 500 coming up soon.” Another fan echoed this sentiment, adding, “Imagine if they made that effort to produce a commercial for Larson, Blaney, Reddick, or Logano.”
FOX’s Rocky Track Record with NASCAR
FOX’s NASCAR coverage has long been a source of criticism. Some of the most memorable complaints include missed key moments, poor camera angles, and misguided promotional efforts. Notably, Dale Earnhardt Jr. once slammed FOX’s narrow camera shots at the COTA race, saying, “These camera shots are too tight. Can’t see everything. There’s a shit ton going on out there.” Moreover, FOX’s attempt to connect with younger fans through comic book-style posters in 2024 was met with ridicule, turning into a meme that NASCAR fans couldn’t ignore.
Is FOX’s IndyCar Investment Sustainable?
Many wonder whether FOX’s honeymoon period with IndyCar will last. One fan raised a concern about the cycle that often plagues sports broadcasting, observing, “It’s the same formula for every network: Get a new shiny thing. Put effort into it. Fans get excited. Years later, the network puts in less effort. Fans complain about quality. The thing moves to a new network. Rinse and repeat.” NASCAR fans fear that this pattern may soon repeat with IndyCar, leaving their series feeling abandoned while FOX sets its sights on the next big thing.
The End of Race Hub: NASCAR Fans in Mourning
Perhaps the most painful blow to NASCAR fans is the cancellation of Race Hub, a FOX staple for over 15 seasons. The 2,500-episode show was beloved by fans, who now suspect that its cancellation was a direct result of FOX’s new focus on IndyCar. One fan questioned, “I thought that’s why they stopped Race Hub—because of getting IndyCar. Wonder if they will do any kind of IndyCar show.” The absence of Race Hub leaves a void, and NASCAR fans are unsure if FOX will provide a suitable replacement.
A New Era, But at What Cost?
FOX’s partnership with IndyCar signals a deliberate shift towards attracting new fans and growing the open-wheel racing audience. However, NASCAR fans, already frustrated by years of perceived neglect, are left questioning if their sport will ever again receive the attention it once commanded.
Looking Ahead: What Can NASCAR Fans Expect in 2025?
With the Daytona 500 on the horizon, NASCAR fans are holding out hope that FOX will elevate its coverage. The network has an opportunity to win back the support of diehard NASCAR enthusiasts by providing more engaging advertising, giving drivers the spotlight they deserve, and showing their passion for the sport. Will FOX rise to the challenge of serving both IndyCar and NASCAR fans with equal enthusiasm? Only time will tell.
