Dale Earnhardt Jr. has shared his perspective on setting high standards for the NASCAR pre-race show, citing influential experiences and expressing support for Amazon Prime’s new broadcast style. Speaking recently with Jordan Bianchi from The Athletic, Earnhardt Jr. discussed the focus and inspiration behind his expectations, relating them to both his personal journey and his latest broadcasting experiences.
Known for his candid observations and deep knowledge of stock car racing, Dale Earnhardt Jr. hosts the popular Dale Jr. Download podcast, produced by Dirty Mo Media and available on YouTube. The show has built a loyal following due to its behind-the-scenes stories, honest commentary, and Junior’s firsthand perspective, engaging listeners throughout each season. The podcast originally launched in 2013 with Mike Davis, co-owner of JR Motorsports, and Dale made his initial appearance after five months during their twenty-second episode.
How Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s Experience Shaped His High Standards
In a recent podcast episode, Dale Earnhardt Jr. explained that his approach to the pre-race show has been influenced by working with experienced broadcasters, particularly Marty Snider at NBC. Emphasizing what he values, he shared his thoughts on setting a benchmark for quality and preparation in the pre-race coverage process.
“I had a high standard for our pre-race show because I always thought the one Marty did when I worked with NBC was awesome. Before we come on air with the pre-race show, they basically just turn the cameras on and turn the stream on.” —Dale Earnhardt Jr., NASCAR Driver/Broadcaster
Currently, as Amazon takes a more prominent role in stock car race coverage, Earnhardt Jr. noted the refreshing changes in their approach and the technology they employ. He highlighted the immersive experience that Amazon’s broadcasting offers fans before the race even starts.
“You can go on Amazon Prime, and you can click the thumbnail, and it puts you in the racetrack. They’ve got cameras roaming around. I love that because, like, you can turn it on and you’ll have the ambient sound and noises and video of the track you’ll hear when the pre-race begins. That’s the luxury.” —Dale Earnhardt Jr., NASCAR Driver/Broadcaster
Amazon Prime, in partnership with the Stock Car Racing Association, began its race broadcasting in 2025 with the Coca-Cola 600, one of NASCAR’s most enduring events, on May 25. The deal marks a new era by bringing fans inside five major races for the current season. The upcoming venues include the Nashville Superspeedway, Michigan International Speedway, Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, and Pocono Raceway, offering exposure to multiple iconic locations most associated with thrilling moments and diverse racing challenges.
Earnhardt Jr. Anticipates Amazon’s Innovations for 2025 NASCAR Season
Earlier this month, Earnhardt Jr., who earned recognition as a two-time Xfinity Series driver and a 15-time Most Popular Driver award winner, shared further insights into Amazon Prime’s approach for the Cup Series. He voiced his anticipation for the unique contributions and creativity that Amazon will introduce in the 2025 broadcast lineup. Earnhardt Jr. will join the broadcasting booth, bringing his distinctive analysis and energizing presence to fans worldwide.
“I got hired to be part of that booth. I’m excited about it […] I think there’ll be some ways that, I say this carefully because I don’t think that one TV partner is better than the other, and I don’t think you would ever have that conversation publicly, but I know that Amazon will bring some new ideas just like anybody.” —Dale Earnhardt Jr., NASCAR Driver/Broadcaster
Although Dale Earnhardt Jr. never secured a Cup Series championship, his legacy in stock car racing is built on 26 victories, 149 finishes in the top five, and 260 top-ten results across 631 Cup Series starts. His relentless pursuit of excellence and ability to connect with listeners and viewers have continued into his media career, where his involvement with Amazon marks another chapter in his enduring influence on the sport.
The partnership between NASCAR and Amazon Prime this season is expected to deliver new technical possibilities and a refreshed viewing style, aligning with Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s drive for originality and enhanced fan experience. As the season unfolds at tracks such as Michigan International Speedway and Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, audiences will see firsthand how high standards and innovative production meet in each broadcast, ensuring anticipation remains high for what lies ahead in NASCAR coverage.
