It’s Daytona time, which should be all about the thrill of the race, but this year, the loudest noise isn’t the engines–it’s the uproar from NASCAR fans that directly targeted the FOX. The 2025 Daytona 500 held on February 16th, 2025, seems to have pushed fans past their breaking point. For the third year in a row now, FOX is facing accusations of its mis-commitments.

Fans had high hopes this time for the coverage of “The Great American Race.” Even President Trump participated in the Super Bowl of stock car racing. Everyone looked to FOX, which was striving to provide the best coverage right from the pre-race preparations. But when the moment came for FOX to capture the patriotic spirit, they slipped up. The reason? Fans know all too well, and their anger flooded FOX with comments.

FOX Daytona coverage sparked fans’ fury

Fans found FOX’s handling of the broadcast during that critical moment very frustrating. Instead of focusing on the unfolding drama of the race and providing in-depth commentary, many felt that FOX prioritized commercials and failed to deliver timely updates on the weather situation. This disconnect left viewers feeling disappointed. Moreover, there was more that added to their outrage, when they learned about what else FOX missed. 

Jeff Gluck took X and wrote, “Zoomed-in flyover. #Daytona500” with the video of Jets soaring high, a true pride moment for every American. The flyover featured the United States Air Force Thunderbirds, marking their 15th consecutive year performing this iconic tribute. They showcased the precision flying of F-16 fighter jets in a signature “Delta” formation. The Daytona 500 was not only a thrilling viewership for fans but also symbolized American pride and old tradition that kicked off the NASCAR season with a powerful display.

Daytona International Speedway President Frank Kelleher emphasized the excitement fueled by the flyover, stating it captures the electric atmosphere of the race. Organizers expected the flyover to energize fans and drivers, setting the stage for intense competition in NASCAR’s premier event. But the broadcast energy spoiled the gest of many fans who were witnessing the event at a distance. 

Top Comment by dggrantharvey

6 min.of racing 4 min of commercials I agree with Jim coverage sucked.

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Fans react to FOX’s repeated blunders

“Fox once again drops the ball”  The comment reflects a similar previously occurred disappointment with FOX’s coverage quality. It was at Bowman Gray Clash as well, where FOX got a graphics malfunction that prevented viewers from seeing the leaderboard during practice sessions. This led to complaints about FOX’s reliability. Then in the 2023 Daytona 500, FOX cut to commercials during a crucial moment when Kevin Harvick gave Tyler Reddick a push on Turn 4. 

Another one said, “We didn’t even get it on TV. I mean what are they doing. The Daytona 500 is NASCAR’s “Super Bowl,” and fans consider every moment important; therefore, this omission is particularly egregious. The flyover is one of the most anticipated features for the fans viewing the broadcast away from the venue. But, it looks like FOX once again couldn’t live up to the expectations of the race fans.

Another one wrote, “Thanks, @NASCARONFOX  went to commercial as usual”  This fan expressed a sense of gratitude for Jeff Gluck for bringing in the Jets Flyover moment for them and frustration that FOX. The irony is that FOX is the official broadcasting network for NASCAR and fans have to rely on journalist and their timely updates on social media for important events that unfold at the racing venue.

This fan sarcastically took a dig at FOX, implying the Blue Angels are more punctual than whoever caused FOX to miss the Daytona 500 flyover. It highlights disappointment, suggesting poor planning or execution related to the flyover’s timing. “The Blue Angels would have arrived on time though.” 

Now NASCAR fans have a long-standing beef with FOX for interpreting the racing action for the first half of the season. Last year, fans complained about untimely commercials and the timing of the breaks perfectly aligned with major crashes or dramatic events in the race. Well, they once again resorted to similar tactics and were into the commercial breaks after just 7 laps before the rain could play spoilsport. This fan knew what he had signed up for and was surprised to see FOX Sports failing to capture the real essence of the Great American Race, “Fox once again drops the ball.” 

What are your thoughts on FOX Sports’ repeated blunders when it comes to covering NASCAR races?