While they only had five races covering the NASCAR Cup Series, Amazon Prime has blown the expectations of fans and viewers out of the water: a lengthy post-race show, commercial-free final laps, and so much more. The bar for NASCAR broadcasts has been elevated. The other broadcasters should learn quickly or fall to the new king, streaming.

NASCAR On Prime Sets High Standards For Future Broadcasts

When Prime began its coverage at the Coca-Cola 600, expectations were low. Fox’s NASCAR broadcasts have been the point of jokes among the fan base. Their season ended at the All-Star race, where coverage was particularly cringeworthy. Michael Waltrip making an ass of himself in the flag stand was the final straw for fans.

Amazon Prime came in hot right out of the gate with its coverage. From the moment it aired its Coke 600 qualifying, it became clear that Prime was taking this task seriously. The production value was top notch, worthy of a crown jewel event.

, CONCORD, NORTH CAROLINA – MAY 25: A general view of racing during the NASCAR Cup Series Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway on May 25, 2025 in Concord, North Carolina. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

The combination of Dale Jr. and his former crew chief, Steve Letarte, is a tried and true combination, proven from their time at NBC Sports. The addition of Adam Alexander was amazing. It truly felt like friends chit-chatting about racing.

While only five races, Prime got some amazing races to cover. The Coke 600 was an all-timer, Nashville had great moments, and Michigan was electric. While Mexico City was soured by SVG’s dominant car, they kept the broadcast exciting. Sunday’s race at Pocono, while not the best race due to the car, kept the viewer interested with the strategy.

The five races gave the team in the booth plenty to discuss. But it was not the racing that kept the fans tuned in.

Positives about Prime’s Coverage

One of the fan favorites was the pre- and post-race show. I have a newfound respect for Corey LaJoie. He is a great young spokesman for the sport, and while no longer driving full-time, I hope he is around this sport for a long time.

I have listened to Danielle Trotta on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio for a while. She was a great host of the show, and I hope she gets to be more involved in television in the future.

But the big piece for me is Carl Edwards. He left the sport very suddenly in 2016 after losing a championship and returned with Amazon Prime. As his first role in television, I thought he was great. His commentary was insightful, and he fit right into the show.

The Pre-Race Live Show and Post-Race Live Show

Fans have been calling for a College Gameday-type show for the fans for a long time, and NASCAR Raceday used to have the stage and desk in front of the fans. It had classic funny moments and has a warm place in the hearts of many fans.

Prime brought that back. Look at the crowd behind the desk at the Pocono race on Saturday. There were flags and posters, and it was like a College Gameday show.

The Prime hosts would have beers with drivers, and it gave a relaxed, hangout feel. Drivers would come and go, have a beer, and talk about their race.

Prime brought the nostalgia of the old Raceday show, modernized it, and gave us a respectful and insightful post-race show while keeping it lighthearted and fun.

Did NASCAR on Prime Set The Bar Too High?

My one concern, looking ahead to passing the torch on to the other broadcast partners, is that Amazon Prime may have set the bar too high. I have some worry that the same level of energy, authenticity, and fan service might not continue. Prime’s coverage did not just meet expectations of fans and the industry, but has elevated them to the point, dare I say it, we will be called spoiled if they are not met in the future.

No cringey Michael Waltrip segment or Clint Bowyer antics, looking at you, Fox Sports. The coverage was worthy of the respect that our fans all believe this sport deserves.

I will end my thoughts with this: a rising tide raises all ships. Let’s hope this rising tide raises the quality of all the broadcasts.

Read Next:Chase Briscoe Breaks Through at Pocono, Saving Enough Fuel to Best Denny Hamlin

Main Photo: Jonathan Bachman, Getty Images

Recording Date: 6/22/2025