This weekend’s NASCAR Cup Series race in Phoenix achieved a notable increase in ratings, marking a significant rise in NASCAR Cup Series ratings compared to prior events. Held on FS1, the event saw strong engagement from viewers across the country, with numbers topping last year’s performance and setting new milestones for the broadcaster.
Phoenix Race Attracts Impressive Audience Growth
The latest Cup Series race in Phoenix drew 2.841 million viewers, which represents a 1% increase over the previous year’s total of 2.818 million for the same event. Not only did overall viewership climb, but the race reached a peak audience of 3.516 million viewers between 7 and 7:15 p.m. ET, reflecting increased interest as the competition reached its most intense moments. FOX Sports PR highlighted that the ratings were up 19% compared to the average FS1 Cup Series broadcast from the previous season, underlining rising audience appeal.
Highest FS1 Sports Ratings Since ALCS Game 7 Segment
The Phoenix race achieved the highest viewership for FS1 since its simulcast of ALCS Game 7. This accomplishment underscores the growing draw of NASCAR among sports fans and reflects a positive trend for both NASCAR and the network. With the Cup Series attracting viewers at this scale, network partners and event organizers are likely to see continued momentum as the season unfolds.
Broader Sports Interest Reflected in Ratings Spike
The surge in NASCAR Cup Series ratings at Phoenix occurred alongside ongoing storylines across sports, with notable events and personalities such as Matt Patricia, Greg Sankey, and Caleb Foster capturing headlines in other leagues and organizations. The increase in NASCAR’s viewership positions the series strongly amid a competitive sports landscape that includes the NFL, NBA, and college tournaments. Media company On3, which reported on the development, described this as an evolving story as more details and analysis emerge.
As the Cup Series progresses and with anticipation building ahead of future races, analysts and fans will be closely watching viewership trends. If the current momentum persists, NASCAR and its broadcasting partners could see further notable gains during the 2026 season and beyond.
🚨NASCAR #DesertDouble up +19% from last year’s NASCAR average viewership on FS1! 📈🌵 pic.twitter.com/jwRjBjNRfD
— FOX Sports PR (@FOXSportsPR) March 10, 2026
