NASCAR Fans Outraged After CW Affiliate Cuts Final Lap of Phoenix Race
Viewers missed a dramatic photo finish due to a local station's programming error, raising broader concerns about The CW's handling of NASCAR broadcasts.
- The CW's Atlanta affiliate, Peachtree TV, cut to a commercial during the final lap of the NASCAR Xfinity Series race in Phoenix, causing fans to miss a dramatic finish between Aric Almirola and Alex Bowman.
- The network issued an apology, attributing the error to the local affiliate and assuring viewers that it would not happen again, but many fans remain dissatisfied.
- Fans in several regions reported that their local CW affiliates did not air the race at all, instead broadcasting unrelated programming, such as reruns and other sports events.
- Despite strong ratings for the Xfinity Series on The CW, fans have criticized the network for its inconsistent coverage, lack of live-streaming options, and production quality issues.
- NASCAR's $115 million annual partnership with The CW, intended to expand the sport's reach, is now under scrutiny as fans question whether the network is equipped to meet the demands of live sports broadcasting.