The recent NASCAR Cup Series playoff race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, pivotal for teams and fans, attracted 1.29 million viewers on USA Network according to Jeff Gluck of The Athletic, marking a significant decline of 28% compared to last year’s Round of 12 opener at Kansas Speedway. The drop in audience for the NASCAR Cup Series playoff race comes as this weekend’s event competed directly with the NFL’s Week 3 slate, impacting overall television numbers.
Sharp Decline in NASCAR Viewership Compared to Previous Years
In 2024, the New Hampshire Motor Speedway event drew 1.88 million viewers, demonstrating that series ratings have dipped since the previous season. This downward trend is notable for NASCAR executives and sponsors, who are navigating a more crowded sports television landscape, especially with the NFL airing games simultaneously. Despite the drop, NASCAR continues to deliver engaging playoff racing for its dedicated fanbase, though new strategies may be needed to regain audience share.
Team Penske Dominates the Race Weekend in New Hampshire
Team Penske showcased its strength during both practice and qualifying, setting the tone for Sunday’s action-packed Round of 12 race. By race’s end, Penske-affiliated cars claimed three of the top five spots, with Wood Brothers Racing’s Josh Berry—benefiting from a technical partnership with Penske—delivering a second-place performance. Ryan Blaney led the way for the team, securing the win, followed by Berry in the runner-up slot, and Joey Logano taking fourth. Collectively, the trio commanded the field by leading 273 out of the 301 laps at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway.
Blaney Holds Off Berry in Intense Final Laps
In the closing stages, Ryan Blaney managed to fend off a persistent Josh Berry, whose late surge nearly changed the outcome. Blaney’s victory marked his third of the 2025 NASCAR season, further strengthening his position in the Cup Series playoffs. Berry’s impressive charge during the final laps put pressure on Blaney, adding a dramatic finish to the race.
“That was probably the hardest 20 laps that I drove,”
Ryan Blaney, Driver, told Marty Snider of NBC Sports.
“I was trying to kind of bind my stuff and kind of pull Josh a little bit and he really started coming. I started to get super free; it was all I could do to hold him off and trying new lanes. So, it was good racing and clean racing, appreciate Josh for not throwing me the bumper when he could have.”
“What a cool day, what a cool weekend. Super fast car all weekend, so can’t believe the 12 boys, they’re unbelievable. Really strong throughout the playoffs and it’s great to get a win the first race of this round.”
— Ryan Blaney, Driver
Looking Ahead: Kansas Speedway and Key Drivers to Watch
The NASCAR Cup Series playoff race heads next to Kansas Speedway, a venue where Kyle Larson dominated earlier in the year by leading 221 of 267 laps en route to a win. This upcoming event will be critical for teams and drivers in the championship hunt, with playoff contenders hoping to capitalize on momentum and improve their position in the standings. Expect continued tight competition among standouts such as Ryan Blaney, Joey Logano, and Josh Berry, while teams like Team Penske aim to maintain their commanding presence.
The ongoing shifts in viewership and competitive balance highlight a season full of storylines and challenges for NASCAR, its media partners, and the athletes striving for playoff glory.
New Hampshire got just 1.29 million viewers.
Last year‘s Round 2 playoff opener (Kansas) had 1.79 million.
— Jeff Gluck (@jeff_gluck) September 24, 2025
RYAN BLANEY WINS AT NEW HAMPSHIRE MOTOR SPEEDWAY! 🦞🏁 pic.twitter.com/RmfY4ULKfU
— FOX: NASCAR (@NASCARONFOX) September 21, 2025
