New NASCAR TV Deal Brings 'Ear To Ear Smile' To NHRA Team Owner
Hopes high that the NHRA's next TV contract could be a game-changer for the drag racing series.
NHRA Teams Hopeful for a Game-Changing TV Deal
The NHRA, currently under a long-term TV deal with FOX, is optimistic about the potential impact of NASCAR's new TV deal. While the NHRA's current contract with FOX provides exposure, it is not a significant revenue generator for the series or the teams. The recent $7.7 billion TV deal signed by NASCAR demonstrates that there is still a demand for motorsports programming, which could be great news for the NHRA.
NHRA president Glen Cromwell is hopeful for a new TV contract for the series and aims to announce it as early as next summer. Cromwell expressed the desire to negotiate a lucrative TV deal that would allow the NHRA to invest in race teams and tracks, creating a healthier environment for the sport.
Like NASCAR, the NHRA teams also hope for a fair distribution of TV revenue. Under NASCAR's current contract, TV revenue is divided between the tracks, teams, and the sanctioning body. NHRA teams are observing NASCAR's deal closely to see if it sets a precedent for increased TV revenue for the teams.
NHRA Teams Interested in New Broadcast and Streaming Opportunities
NASCAR's new TV deal includes multiple broadcast partners and streaming services, opening up possibilities for the NHRA. The deal's inclusion of a pay streaming service like Amazon Prime Video indicates more potential broadcast and streaming partners that could be interested in the NHRA product.
The Professional Racers Owners Organization (PRO), representing NHRA Top Fuel, Funny Car, and Pro Stock team owners, recognizes the potential benefits of a new TV deal for NHRA teams. The increased exposure and potential TV revenue could have a significant impact on the financial health of NHRA teams.
However, the NHRA has yet to determine the distribution percentages of TV revenue to its teams or specify which teams would benefit financially from the new deal. Questions remain regarding whether part-time teams, multi-car teams, or specific pro classes within NHRA would receive different shares of the TV revenue.
