The NASCAR Xfinity Series TV ratings have seen significant growth, as Friday night’s race at Daytona International Speedway drew over one million viewers on The CW Network. This marked the fifth consecutive NXS event to cross the million-viewer threshold, signaling growing interest as The CW begins its first full season broadcasting the series.
Daytona Delivers Another Ratings Milestone
According to Jeff Gluck of The Athletic, the NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Daytona was watched by 1.092 million viewers, a 33% increase compared to last year’s broadcast on USA Network. The strong performance is attributed to The CW Network’s new seven-year agreement with NASCAR, valued at approximately $115 million, granting exclusive rights to all NXS races. The CW took over from NBC/USA late last year, and early data suggests that the network’s commitment is yielding positive results for NASCAR, partners, and advertisers alike.
High Drama Shaped Daytona’s Broadcast
Fans tuning into the Daytona event found plenty of drama on the track, a key component in driving the NASCAR Xfinity Series TV ratings. The restrictor-plate racing’s trademark three and four-wide battles under the lights delivered constant excitement. Ahead of the race, many wondered if points leader Connor Zilisch would compete after suffering a fall at Watkins Glen International’s Victory Lane. Cleared just before the race by doctors and NASCAR, Zilisch was under careful watch from his team, JR Motorsports, who prioritized his health in their playoff pursuit.
Parker Kligerman, now a CW analyst and former full-time driver, was on standby in case Zilisch had to withdraw. This situation played out by Lap 14 when Kligerman took over the No. 88 Chevrolet, pushing through the pack for the race win. In Victory Lane he stated,
“I hate the circumstances for Connor and I feel honored to have gotten the call,”
—Parker Kligerman, CW Analyst
He continued, thanking race allies for their support at the finish, emphasizing the teamwork that secured victory. Kligerman added,
“For me, this is such a me thing that this (win) will not be on Racing Reference (website) at all. I’m still going to count it as a win; I’m going to take the checkered flag. (laughs)”
—Parker Kligerman, CW Analyst
Special Recognition for an Unusual Victory
The win was acknowledged in a unique way by Racing Reference Info, a trusted source for motorsports statistics. The website included a special Race Notes entry stating,
“Connor Zilisch with relief from Parker Kligerman.”
—Racing Reference Info
Kligerman responded lightheartedly on social media, showing appreciation for the mention. This moment added to the night’s drama and highlighted the dynamic stories attracting viewers to the broadcasts.
The Road Ahead: Key Races and Playoff Implications
The NASCAR Xfinity Series moves next to Portland International Raceway for a 75-lap contest on the 1.97-mile circuit, a shift from superspeedways to road course competition. Scheduled for Saturday evening, the event poses a different challenge for both teams and the broadcast’s audience draw, as it precedes the final Playoff qualifier at St. Louis’ World Wide Technology Raceway.
Currently, eight drivers—including Connor Zilisch, who is already locked in via six wins—have secured playoff spots. Harrison Burton stands 67 points clear of the bubble in twelfth, with Jed Burton close behind in thirteenth. Just as in the Cup and Truck Series, a victory by a non-locked driver could suddenly alter the playoff landscape.
With the Playoffs looming and several key positions still undecided, anticipation is building among fans and competitors. These storylines should help sustain or even elevate NASCAR Xfinity Series TV ratings, particularly as the season’s decisive moments approach.
