Daytona 500 Duels deliver biggest TV numbers since 2018, drawing more fans than ever before. This year’s event saw a sharp rise in viewership, marking a major moment for NASCAR. With intense battles on the track and high stakes for the main race, fans were glued to their screens. A well-known sports network released surprising ratings, showing a double-digit increase from last year. But what made this event stand out? The answer could hint at even bigger numbers for the Daytona 500 itself.
Key Highlights
- Daytona 500 Duels attracted 1.8 million viewers on FS1.
- Viewership increased by 12 percent compared to the previous year.
- Event achieved the highest ratings since 2018.
- FS1 was the leading cable-sports network during the event.
- Duels ranked as the number one sports telecast of the day.
Viewership and Ratings Surge for Daytona 500 Duels
While the Daytona 500 Duels have consistently drawn attention, this year’s event saw a remarkable increase in viewership, capturing the interest of racing fans across the nation.
According to a report by FOX Sports, an impressive 1.8 million viewers tuned in to the Duels on FS1, marking a considerable 12 percent rise compared to the previous year. This surge in audience numbers not only reflects a growing enthusiasm for NASCAR but also emphasizes the event’s status as a highlight in the sports calendar.
The Duels achieved their highest ratings since 2018, further cementing FS1’s position as the leading cable-sports network in primetime viewership during the event.
Jordan Bianchi of The Athletic reported these figures, noting that the Duels had been the number one sports telecast of the day. This increase in viewership indicates a promising outlook for the upcoming Daytona 500, suggesting potential growth and heightened engagement from fans.
Per Fox Sports, 1.8 million viewers watched last night's Duels on FS1, up 12% from last year. The Duels were also the highest for the event since 2018, was the No. 1 sports telecast of the day, and helped make FS1 the top cable-sports network in viewership in primetime.
— Jordan Bianchi (@Jordan_Bianchi) February 15, 2025
“Per Fox Sports, 1.8 million viewers watched last night’s Duels on FS1, up 12% from last year. The Duels were also the highest for the event since 2018, was the No. 1 sports telecast of the day, and helped make FS1 the top cable-sports network in viewership in primetime.” – Jordan Bianchi
Fans are thrilled as the Daytona Duels hit new heights. A huge spike in viewership stuns everyone, dominating FS1 and proving NASCAR’s growing popularity.
“NASCAR back?”
“Because of the @JRMotorsports 40 car 🙌 @DaleJr @EarnhardtKelley”
“Let’s gooooooo pumped for the 500!!!” – NASCAR Fans Reaction
William Byron’s Optimism Ahead of Daytona 500
As the Daytona 500 approaches, William Byron exudes optimism about his chances of clinching another victory in this prestigious event.
The 67th running of the annual race, set for February 16, 2025, has Byron feeling confident, especially after a promising practice session. Representing Hendrick Motorsports, Byron, the defending champion, believes his car is faster than last year’s, thanks to upgrades in their backup cars.
In a post-practice interview, Byron noted that despite the challenges faced the previous year with a less speedy car, tactical positioning and handling were key.
“I mean last year, we just kind of made the best with the backup car situation. I feel like the backup cars have come a long way since then.”
“We didn’t really have the most speed, but we were in just good positions and we handled well through the race.”
“I feel like this car has a lot more speed. I’m just excited and optimistic for that because I think that’s going to help us a lot in the race.” – William Byron
Now, with improved speed, Byron is enthusiastic about his race prospects. Despite rain disruptions causing delays and canceling the Truck Series practice, Byron managed to finish inside the top five during the shortened session.
His optimism is strengthened by teammate Chase Elliott‘s performance, indicating that Hendrick Motorsports is well-prepared for the upcoming race.
Chase Briscoe’s Historic Pole Position for Toyota
Chase Briscoe made history by securing the pole position for the Daytona 500, marking a notable achievement for Toyota. Joining Joe Gibbs Racing this year, Briscoe displayed his skill by piloting the No. 19 Bass Pro Shops Camry to the fastest times in both qualifying rounds at Daytona International Speedway.
This accomplishment signifies Toyota’s inaugural pole position for the prestigious race, a milestone that adds to their storied legacy in motorsports.
Briscoe, visibly thrilled, expressed his gratitude towards his new team and sponsors. He emphasized the significance of starting the ‘Great American Race’ with a brand like Bass Pro Shops, a revered American institution.
“What an unbelievable way to start off the year! It’s unbelievable to start off with Toyota and be able to deliver them the first of anything when they’ve already accomplished so much, it’s pretty cool. To think that I’m going to start on the pole of the ‘Great American Race’ with honestly the ultimate great American brand in Bass Pro Shops is unbelievable. I just can’t thank Coach Gibbs enough and the entire Joe Gibbs Racing organization.” – Chase Briscoe
On the pole for the Daytona 500!! The greatest American brand in @BassProShops leading the field to green in the Great American Race! pic.twitter.com/LcpZEU5kur
— Chase Briscoe (@chasebriscoe) February 13, 2025
In the previous season, Briscoe concluded 14th in points, securing three top-five finishes and nine top-10s. His solo victory came at Darlington Speedway on September 1, 2024.
This pole position sets a promising tone for Briscoe’s upcoming season, cementing his place among elite drivers.
Record Number of Toyota Drivers in Duels
The excitement surrounding Chase Briscoe’s pole position for Toyota sets the stage for another significant milestone: a record number of Toyota drivers participating in the Daytona 500 duels.
This year, 11 drivers are wheeling Toyota Camry cars, marking a new high for Toyota Racing Development (TRD), the brand’s in-house tuning shop established in 1954. This achievement highlights Toyota’s growing influence and competitive edge in the NASCAR scene.
This unprecedented participation from Toyota is not just a numerical victory but also a demonstration of their dedication to excellence. The tactical deployment of these 11 drivers in the duels is likely to improve Toyota’s chances of clinching a victory at the Daytona 500, solidifying their standing in the racing community.
News in Brief: Daytona 500 Duels Deliver Biggest TV Numbers Since 2018
The Daytona 500 Duels have seen a notable increase in viewership, with 1.8 million tuning in, reflecting a 12% rise from the previous year. This surge in ratings emphasizes growing interest in the event, fueled by William Byron’s optimism and Chase Briscoe’s historic pole position for Toyota.
With a record number of Toyota drivers participating, the excitement surrounding the races continues to build, setting the stage for an exhilarating Daytona 500. These developments showcase the dynamic nature of the sport.
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