NASCAR continues to look into the possibility of launching an over-the-top streaming service, according to sources, even though the sport’s live media rights are tied up through 2024.
The sanctioning body licenses its media rights to Fox Sports and NBC Sports, which are set to air all races from the sport’s three national series for another six years after 2018.
However, amid the rise of internet streaming and given the expansive coverage opportunities around motorsports, NASCAR has been studying the idea of launching an OTT service, according to sources. The possibility was first acknowledged in a tweet by former NASCAR President Brent Dewar in January.
NASCAR declined comment.
The network could launch as soon as 2020, according to one source, but issues such as the revenue model and use of outside vendors remain unclear.
While such a network couldn’t show live races from NASCAR national series races until 2025, it could show everything from lower-level forms of racing to archived events and NASCAR/motorsports lifestyle content. It is unknown whether the network could show highlights after races air on Fox and NBC channels.
NASCAR has been focused in recent years on building out its digital media presence and increasing the star power of its drivers. Having a streaming network would give the series a platform to further those efforts.
Formula One launched an OTT network this year that shows live races. Meanwhile, IndyCar will be part of a new OTT channel on NBC Sports’ Gold OTT network.
