NASCAR Faces Declining Viewership as FOX Shifts Races to FS1

The move from network TV to cable and ongoing fan discontent with FOX's coverage raise concerns about NASCAR's media strategy.

The recent NASCAR Cup Series race at Phoenix Raceway on FS1 drew 2.82 million viewers, significantly lower than the 4.028 million viewers on FOX's main channel for the same race last year.
FOX's decision to air more races on FS1 in 2025, rather than its main network, has sparked criticism from fans who prefer broader accessibility through network TV.
Despite a slight increase in FS1 viewership compared to its 2024 average, fans remain frustrated with FOX's coverage, citing missed key moments and poor production quality.
NASCAR's $7.7 billion media rights deal has introduced new broadcasters like Amazon Prime Video and TNT, but fans are skeptical about the sport's reliance on cable TV in a changing media landscape.
While the Xfinity Series race on The CW saw a 13% year-over-year viewership increase, fans continue to call for changes to the Cup Series schedule and championship race location, citing dissatisfaction with Phoenix Raceway.