NASCAR might finally return to CBS television. Steve O’Donnell, the sport’s CEO, told Front Office Sports that the idea is already on the table, according to the Daily Downforce. This comes after Paramount Skydance acquired Warner Bros. Discovery, creating a new media giant that owns both CBS and TNT. The current TV deal runs through 2031, but the merger changes the landscape entirely. O’Donnell admitted the sport has brought up the idea with Paramount leadership. It is no longer just a fan wish; it is a business reality waiting to happen.
The Merger Opens the Door
The current media rights deal splits the season between FOX, NBC, and streaming services. A large portion of the season goes to cable channels like USA and TNT. Prime Video and TNT will split a ten-race summer stretch as part of the deal. This setup leaves many fans wanting more network exposure. CBS has not hosted a NASCAR Cup Series race since the 2000 season. The 1960 start of that relationship concluded in that same year. The Daytona 500 used to be the centerpiece of the network’s schedule. Now, the acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery by Paramount Skydance puts CBS and TNT under one roof. When questioned about a possible Cup Series return to CBS, O’Donnell replied, “Who knows.” He confirmed that the sport has already spoken to leadership at Paramount Skydance. The door is open for more opportunities on network television.
Why Network TV Still Matters
Streaming apps like Paramount+ and HBO Max are growing, but they do not replace the reach of broadcast TV. HBO Max currently holds exclusive in-car camera rights for the entire NASCAR Cup Series season. It also has simulcast rights to truTV’s fall slate of practice and qualifying sessions. TNT holds rights to five NASCAR Cup Series races. While streaming is important, the real goal is getting more races on Network TV. Fans want the sport where everyone can see it without a subscription. The merger removes the corporate walls that kept CBS and NASCAR apart for decades. With CBS Sports Network now under the same umbrella as TNT, the path forward is clear. The industry is watching to see if the old partners can find a new way to work together.
Chase Briscoe’s Own Race for Glory
While the executives talk business, drivers are fighting for the championship on the track. Chase Briscoe is hoping to replicate the historic comeback of his hero, Tony Stewart. Stewart secured the 2011 NASCAR Cup Series championship by claiming five of the 10 playoff races. Briscoe has already won back-to-back playoff races, including a victory at Charlotte where he beat teammate Christopher Bell by .029 seconds. Charlotte Motor Speedway’s 66-year history saw that event as its second closest race. Briscoe is now 65 points behind Kyle Larson with four races remaining. He said, “I think we are certainly in contention.” He also noted, “We probably need to win another race or two, but we at least put ourselves in the ballgame. That’s all you can ask for.” Briscoe knows he needs to be perfect to catch the leaders, just as Stewart did.
