Despite a major controversy involving one of The CW’s local affiliates over the weekend, the network continued its strong viewership streak, surpassing the 2024 NASCAR Xfinity Series for the fourth consecutive week. Saturday’s GOVX 200 at Phoenix attracted 1.2 million viewers, marking a 13% increase from last year’s spring race at the same track, which drew 1.025 million viewers on FS1.
Meanwhile, Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Phoenix on FS1 recorded a 1.43 rating and 2.82 million viewers. This viewership cannot be directly compared to last year’s event since it aired on Fox’s broadcast channel, where it attracted 4.028 million viewers.
The CW’s success with the Xfinity Series is particularly notable. Through the first four races of the 2025 season, the network has outperformed the same events on FS1 from 2024 by a combined 1.411 million viewers. Even when comparing this season’s third race at Circuit of the Americas (COTA) with last year’s third event at Las Vegas, The CW still saw an impressive 1.280 million-viewer boost—a 34% increase.
Several factors may be contributing to the rise in viewership. Fans have responded positively to The CW’s updated broadcast presentation, which features a refreshed commentary booth and a sleek, modern graphics package that includes a bottom-scoring pylon. Additionally, the network’s wide reach through its large affiliate system may also play a significant role. According to The CW, it is “one of America’s major broadcast networks and reaches 100% of US television households.”
However, reaching all viewers has not been without challenges. Throughout the season, some fans have reported issues with their local CW affiliates cutting away from race broadcasts or prioritizing regional sports. These problems became more pronounced during the Phoenix race when Peachtree TV, The CW’s Atlanta affiliate, abruptly cut to a commercial as drivers took the white flag. Instead of returning to the race, the station switched to an NBA game, leaving fans without coverage of the finish.
The controversy hasn’t dampened The CW’s growing audience for the Xfinity Series, but the network will need to address these broadcasting issues to maintain viewer satisfaction.
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