NBC Snags NASCAR Rights, Giving The CW a Boost
The CW, the struggling network, has been granted a lifeline by NBCUniversal. The network is now the exclusive home to NASCAR Xfinity Series races, starting in 2024.
This move signals a significant shift in the landscape of NASCAR broadcasting, as the network continues to build a new identity after its recent acquisition by Nexstar.
The CW will air all 33 races of the Xfinity Series, a feeder series to the NASCAR Cup Series, while NBC and Peacock will continue to broadcast the Cup Series races.
Here's what we know about this deal and its implications:
The Deal:
- NBCUniversal acquired the rights to all NASCAR races for a six-year period, starting in 2021.
- Under this agreement, The CW secured the exclusive rights to the Xfinity Series.
- This is the first time that The CW will air live sporting events, showcasing the network's potential for a wider audience.
The Benefits:
- For The CW: This deal provides a much-needed boost for The CW's programming lineup, giving them live sports coverage and attracting a wider audience.
- For NASCAR: The deal ensures that the Xfinity Series will continue to be broadcast widely and reach a new demographic.
- For Fans: Fans will have multiple options to watch Xfinity Series races, with the flexibility of watching on both linear and streaming platforms.
The Implications:
- The CW's acquisition of NASCAR Xfinity Series rights indicates the network's ambitions to expand its reach and appeal to a wider audience.
- This move could signal a shift in sports broadcasting, with other networks potentially looking to secure live sports rights to attract viewers.
- The deal further strengthens NBCUniversal's dominance in NASCAR coverage, securing a significant chunk of the sport's broadcasting rights.
The Future:
The future of The CW remains to be seen, but the addition of NASCAR Xfinity Series is a positive step in the right direction. It will be interesting to see how the network leverages this opportunity and whether it can successfully attract a significant viewership for the races.
This agreement offers exciting possibilities for The CW, NASCAR, and fans alike, promising a renewed focus on the sport's development and a wider platform for Xfinity Series drivers to showcase their talent.
