Home / Sports / NASCAR Races to NBC in Landmark 2015 Deal
NASCAR Races to NBC in Landmark 2015 Deal
5 May
Summary
- NBC and NASCAR signed a 10-year deal starting in 2015.
- NBC will broadcast the final 20 Sprint Cup Series races.
- The deal makes NBC Sports Group a dominant motorsports network.
NASCAR has finalized a significant 10-year broadcasting agreement with NBC Sports Group, set to commence in 2015. This new partnership will see NBC airing the latter portion of the Sprint Cup Series season, specifically the final 20 races, and 19 Nationwide Series events annually. NBC last held NASCAR broadcast rights in 2006 before ESPN took over its segment of the schedule.
Mark Lazarus, chairman of NBC Sports Group, expressed enthusiasm for the deal, highlighting its importance for the network's sports properties. The agreement solidifies NBC Sports Group's position as a leading motorsports broadcaster, now encompassing NASCAR, Formula One, and IndyCar. This comprehensive offering is anticipated to create a strong circulation of motorsports enthusiasts across NBC's platforms.
The transition involves NBC airing seven Cup races and 13 on the NBC Sports Network, with four Nationwide events on NBC and 15 on NBC Sports Network. While three Sprint Cup races remain unsold, NASCAR is confident they will be quickly placed. The deal also includes rights for other series, the NASCAR Hall of Fame, and digital/Spanish-language broadcasts.
This move signifies a strategic shift for NASCAR, potentially enhancing its visibility by aligning with NBC's strong programming, including lead-ins to NFL "Sunday Night Football." While ESPN and Turner Sports concluded their partnerships, ESPN stated it would continue NASCAR coverage through its news platforms. Turner indicated financial considerations prevented them from extending their long-standing relationship.
