NASCAR driver Xfinity interview payout incentives have reached record levels during the 2025 season, with drivers earning bonuses for mentioning the brand in post-race interviews. As the Xfinity title sponsorship era draws to a close ahead of the rebranding to the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series in 2026, this unique program has taken on added significance for drivers, public relations personnel, and fans alike.
Xfinity’s tenure as the title sponsor of the NASCAR Xfinity Series dates back to 2015, but recent seasons have seen the sponsorship include a lucrative bonus system. Drivers who mention Xfinity in their televised interviews are rewarded financially, as are their PR representatives. These payouts have grown notably this year, coinciding with expanded race coverage by The CW network, which has provided viewers with more pre-race and post-race interviews—and in turn, more opportunities for drivers to mention Xfinity.
Parker Kligerman Shares Details on the Payout Structure
Parker Kligerman, one of the drivers benefiting from this arrangement, openly discussed the details behind Xfinity’s mention program. He emphasized how the initiative has had a real impact on competitors’ earnings and acknowledged its popularity among both drivers and their support staff.
“Xfinity, like really amazing what they’ve done for the drivers with that program where you mention Xfinity mobile,”
Parker Kligerman stated.
“I know a lot of fans ask. Now that they’re leaving, I think I can put it out there.”
Parker Kligerman stated.
“It’s $600 every time you say it. It’s $1,000 when you say it in victory lane.”
Parker Kligerman stated.
“You can do the math. If you’re one of the guys that run up front, it is a considerable amount of money they give to you. They also pay your PR person.”
Parker Kligerman stated.
“So, last year, I finished 2nd to Sam Mayer by one. He beat me by one because he made the championship 4 and he got another interview.”
Parker Kligerman stated.
“To put it in context, this year, the CW obviously has done full pre-race and post-race shows. Sometimes, they interview the top 10.”
Parker Kligerman stated.
“They broke the record for mentions at like 1/3rd of the season. I think there’s a couple guys, Zilisch and some of them that have made considerable income from Xfinity this year.”
Parker Kligerman stated.
Kligerman added,
“So, they’ve been a great partner.”
Parker Kligerman stated.
Impact of the Program and What Lies Ahead for NASCAR Drivers
This season’s expanded programming on The CW has bolstered the reach and frequency of Xfinity’s incentive program, leading to a new record for brand mentions by just a third of the way into the year. As Kligerman highlighted, drivers running at the front, such as Sam Mayer and Zilisch, have been particularly successful at maximizing their interview opportunities and earnings. The inclusion of PR staff in the bonus structure has further magnified the impact within the NASCAR community.
With the program’s success apparent, its run is set to conclude as the Xfinity Series transforms into the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series in 2026. For now, the NASCAR Xfinity Series wraps up the season with the championship race at Phoenix Raceway, where drivers, teams, and fans will be watching closely to see how the final bonuses are distributed. This unique incentive system has certainly left a significant imprint on the series, shaping both the tone of interviews and adding another competitive element among the drivers.
