In a shocking turn of events, the NASCAR Xfinity Series is rumored to be heading exclusively to streaming services, leaving fans and industry insiders concerned about the future of the series. Sources indicate that negotiations are underway with companies like Amazon Prime Video to secure a streaming rights deal. While this move may offer additional revenue streams for NASCAR, it has ignited a wave of criticism from fans who fear that the decision could ultimately kill the series.

NASCAR explores streaming service deal for Xfinity Series

According to sources close to the matter, the NASCAR Xfinity Series is in talks with two Streaming service providers, with Amazon Prime Video being one of the interested parties. Amazon is not only eyeing the Xfinity Series but is also considering a mid-season package of NASCAR Cup races as the sport’s media rights deals with FOX and NBC are set to expire soon. This move by Amazon is seen as a way to attract more NASCAR fans to its streaming service and boost Prime subscriptions.

The exclusive negotiating period between NASCAR, FOX, and NBC has ended without the parties agreeing to a new deal being reached. Although FOX and NBC are expected to renew their media rights contracts, the possibility of the Xfinity Series moving exclusively to streaming services is causing concern among fans. FOX currently broadcasts the first half of the racing season, including prestigious events like the Daytona 500, while NBC takes over for the second half and the NASCAR Playoffs. Some races are already simulcast on NBC’s streaming platform, Peacock.

NASCAR executives have been meeting with various media and technology companies to explore their options. Although NASCAR is said to prefer a deal centered around broadcast television, it is open to direct-to-consumer deals and digital distribution. A final decision is expected to be made by Independence Day, and fans anxiously await the outcome.

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Fans bash the org following the latest speculations about Xfinity Series streaming

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Fans have taken to social media to express their discontent with the potential shift to exclusive streaming. Many believe that this move will harm the series rather than benefit it. One fan tweeted, “That will destroy the series. It needs to be easy to access. Having the option to stream is very nice, but exclusively streaming will throttle views.”

Another fan raised concerns about the impact on sponsors, saying, “This would 100% drive away sponsors. Limiting viewers to the ones who pay to watch the LOWER series, this would absolutely crush small teams.”

Sponsors play a crucial role in NASCAR, and reducing the potential reach of the series through exclusive streaming could indeed have a negative impact on teams and their financial stability.

A common sentiment among fans is the need for a balanced approach. One fan expressed their disappointment, stating, “Big L if true. Streaming is needed! What they don’t need is to limit the scope of those who can view the race through a restrictive streaming deal. What would be good is for NASCAR to work with FOX/NBC on a streaming package that stands alongside traditional viewing options.”

While the fan reactions are overwhelmingly negative, it’s important to note that NASCAR’s consideration of streaming services stems from the desire to secure additional revenue streams. By exploring streaming rights deals, NASCAR hopes to increase the value of its media rights contracts and provide teams with a larger share of the earnings.

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As the negotiations continue, it remains to be seen whether NASCAR will heed the concerns of its loyal fan base or pursue the path of exclusive streaming. Only time will tell if this decision will prove to be a fatal blow to the series or a necessary evolution in a rapidly changing media landscape.