NASCAR reportedly in advance talks with Netflix for a docu-series on the 2023 Cup playoffs

According to sources, NASCAR and Netflix will release the 2023 playoffs in a documentary series format.

NASCAR 2023 Richmond Cup race (Credits: NASCAR.Com)

NASCAR is the most prestigious stock car racing series in the world. The sanctioning body is focused on expanding its fan base globally. It has come to light that the organization is in talks with Netflix to air the 2023 playoffs in a documentary series format. According to sources, they are already in advanced discussions with the streaming platform. This effort could boost NASCAR’s popularity like its open-wheel counterpart, Formula 1.

Adam Stern from Sports Business Journal reported, “NASCAR is in advanced discussions with Netflix to have this season’s playoffs docu-series aired on the streaming platform, per sources, in what could be a notable boost for the racing property. Netflix has more than 200 million subscribers globally.” There is no doubt that this development would gain NASCAR‘s new fans.

In 2019, Netflix and F1 released the “Formula 1: Drive to Survive” docu-series. It shed light on the life of the drivers, managers, and team owners in the fast lane. Since the series was launched, the sport saw an increase in viewership. NASCAR and Netflix aim for similar results with their new series. SBJ reported that NASCAR wanted to hold off the full season docs-series. Hence, it will feature only the playoffs, with the teams and the sport discussing negotiations.

NASCAR and Netflix created the Bubba Wallace docs-series previously

Bubba Wallce Heavy Metal (1) — Bubba Wallace (Credits: RollingStone)

NASCAR playoffs will start in two weeks, after the regular Cup season’s finale at Daytona International Speedway on August 26th. Sources claim the sport is finalizing plans to launch the docu-series on Netflix though there is no official announcement from the organization. Formula 1 tried to boost its popularity in the U.S. for decades but was unsuccessful. However, things took a turn for the better after their Netflix show. NASCAR hopes to pull something similar and reach fans across the world.

NASCAR drivers and teams have been notified of the plans and are working with the sport reportedly. However, no further details are available at this point. The proposal’s financial terms have not been confirmed yet. There is no news regarding the release date, and NASCAR has not commented. They have previously worked with Netflix on a Bubba Wallace docu-series that was aired in 2022. The show featuring his life even won a Sports Emmy award.

.@NASCAR is in advanced discussions with @Netflix to have this season’s playoffs docu-series aired on the streaming platform, per sources, in what could be a notable boost for the racing property.

? Netflix has more than 200 million subscribers globally.https://t.co/leKbf8aHCs
— Adam Stern (@A_S12) August 18, 2023

Meanwhile, setting NASCAR’s series aside, F1’s sixth season of Drive to Survive will release on Netflix early next year. IndyCar’s docu-series will air on CW and Vice later this season. There are other upcoming docu-series based on golf and tennis. It is safe to say they would hope to make the rating chart like Formula 1.

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#About the Author

Sugantha Meena

(493 Articles Published)

Sugantha Meena is a Motorsports writer at Firstsportz. She follows Formula One religiously. Her love for Mercedes AMG Petronas and Sir Lewis Hamilton is immense. She holds two degrees, M.A. in International Relations & B.A. in Sociology, from Stella Maris College, Chennai. Apart from Motorsports, she is interested in Football, a proud Manchester United fan. During her free time, she loves to read, cook, listen to music, watch movies and spend time with family and friends.

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