NASCAR: NBC set to make broadcast booth change after Olympic break

NASCAR: NBC set to make broadcast booth change after Olympic break

As a long-time NASCAR enthusiast who has witnessed numerous changes and developments in the sport, I must say that the upcoming shift in the NBC Sports broadcast booth is both exciting and intriguing. Leigh Diffey, known for his exceptional work with IndyCar and IMSA coverage, stepping into the lead role for the Cup Series is a move that promises to bring fresh perspectives and insights to the table.


As a die-hard NASCAR fan with years of watching races and following the sport closely, I was quite taken aback by the news that Dale Earnhardt Jr. won’t be back in the NBC Sports broadcast booth for the 2024 season. His insightful analysis and infectious enthusiasm have been a significant part of my NASCAR viewing experience, and his absence will undoubtedly leave a void. However, I understand that everyone has their own life choices to make, and I respect Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s decision to move on.

During both NBC and USA Network airings, you’ll find the same commentators in the broadcast booth. After NBC Sports Network ceased operations at the end of 2021, USA Network took over as the alternate channel owned by NBCUniversal during NBC’s schedule.

Since 2015, Rick Allen has been the primary host, with Jeff Burton and Steve Letarte serving as color commentators alongside him.

After a three-week hiatus during the Summer Olympics in Paris, France, Leigh Diffey will replace Allen as IndyCar and IMSA’s announcer.

NASCAR Cup Series set for NBC booth change

Despite mainly focusing on NBC’s IndyCar and IMSA broadcasts, it’s worth noting that Diffey has also worked as a commentator for NASCAR races on NBC, most notably as the main announcer for certain events in 2017.

Despite the Xfinity Series starting its 2025 full-time transition to the CW Network from August 23 at Daytona International Speedway, Allen remains scheduled as the main commentator for the races.

As a gamer, I’m eagerly waiting for the news about when Diffey will make his debut in the 2024 Cup Series broadcast booth, but unfortunately, no official date has been announced yet. This weekend, as the Olympics come to a close, I won’t be catching him at Richmond Raceway’s Cook Out 400. Here’s hoping we hear about his debut soon!

After that, the Cup Series is planned to make stops at Michigan International Speedway for the FireKeepers Casino 400 on August 18th (Sunday), Daytona International Speedway for the Coke Zero Sugar 400 on August 24th (Saturday), and Darlington Raceway for the Cook Out Southern 500 on September 1st (Sunday). These events will conclude the regular season.

In contrast, the Michigan and Darlington races will air live on USA Network, whereas the Daytona event will be broadcasted live on NBC.

2024’s racing season will see the USA Network airing the initial four playoff races. Meanwhile, NBC will be responsible for the last six races to conclude the season.

As a dedicated NASCAR fan and gamer, I’m pumped! After a three-week hiatus, we’re back on track this coming Sunday, August 11. From here until the final race in November 2024, there are no more off weekends in sight. Buckle up, folks, it’s time to race!

Watch the live broadcast of The Cook Out 400, starting at 6:00 p.m. ET on USA Network from Richmond Raceway. To catch every moment from this race and throughout the 2024 season, sign up for a free trial with FuboTV right now!

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2024-08-10 15:02

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