Hold onto your helmets, racing fans, because the world of motorsports just hit a major milestone! For the first time ever, an NHRA broadcast has shattered the two-million-viewer barrier, leaving even NASCAR's Las Vegas race in the dust. But here's where it gets even more thrilling: the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) didn't just break records—they obliterated them, with the Texas FallNationals on Fox drawing a staggering 2.07 million viewers. And this is the part most people miss: the peak viewership hit a jaw-dropping 3.63 million, proving that drag racing is revving up its popularity like never before.
Steve Reintjes, NHRA’s vice president of broadcast, couldn’t hide his excitement: “This record-setting broadcast is a testament to our exceptional production team, who deliver drag racing action with unmatched passion and commitment.” But it wasn’t just the crew behind the scenes—Reintjes also credited the Meyer family and their Texas Motorplex team, along with partners like Fox Sports, for making this milestone possible. Controversial question: Could this be the start of NHRA overtaking NASCAR in the viewership race? Let us know what you think in the comments!
Speaking of NASCAR, their playoffs are currently averaging 1.57 million viewers with three races left, a slight dip from last year’s numbers. While their Las Vegas race on USA Network saw a 10% viewership bump compared to the previous weekend, it still trailed behind NHRA’s historic broadcast. And this is the part most people miss: last year’s Las Vegas playoff race aired on NBC, making a direct comparison tricky. So, is NASCAR losing its grip, or is this just a temporary pit stop? Share your thoughts below!
Meanwhile, across the globe, Australia’s Bathurst 1000 roared back with its biggest TV audience since 2016, averaging over two million viewers. The free-to-air Seven Network drew 1.54 million, while pay-TV broadcaster Foxtel added another 459,000. But here’s where it gets controversial: streaming platforms like Seven’s 7Plus and Foxtel’s Kayo Sports broke records, with 211,000 average viewers on 7Plus alone—their highest non-Olympics, non-AFL Grand Final audience ever. Does this signal a shift toward streaming for motorsports? Weigh in below!
From NHRA’s record-breaking broadcast to NASCAR’s playoff numbers and Australia’s streaming surge, one thing’s clear: motorsports are accelerating into a new era. Don’t miss a beat—subscribe to the BlackBook Motorsport Weekly newsletter here to stay in the fast lane!
