The NASCAR Xfinity Series’ primetime debut on The CW last Friday made a resounding impact, attracting the largest viewership for a series race since July 20 and marking the network’s highest ratings in over eight months. Racing fans across the nation tuned in, signaling a growing trend of viewers turning to The CW for live sports. According to Nielsen, the race averaged 906,000 Total Viewers, with a peak of over one million between 9:30-9:45 p.m. ET as Cole Custer pushed for a victory at Bristol Motor Speedway.

Compared to the September 14 race at Watkins Glen, The CW saw impressive double-digit growth across key demographics—up 52% in Adults 25-54 (234,000), 50% in Adults 18-49 (161,000), and 16% in Total Viewers. When compared to the previous Friday night race on August 23, viewership also surged, with Total Viewers up 10%, Adults 18-49 up 31%, and Adults 25-54 up 26%. Even more striking, The CW’s Friday primetime viewership averages skyrocketed with triple-digit increases: +123% in Total Viewers, +169% in Adults 25-54, and +144% in Adults 18-49. This surge underscores how sports fans are increasingly turning to The CW as a go-to destination for live sports content.

The excitement continues this Saturday, September 28, with the first NASCAR Xfinity Series playoff race live from Kansas Speedway. Coverage kicks off with NASCAR COUNTDOWN LIVE from 3:30-4:00 p.m. ET, followed by the race at 4:00 p.m. ET. Rick Allen will lead the broadcast alongside analysts Jeff Burton and Steve Letarte.

Don’t miss what’s shaping up to be a thrilling weekend of live racing action on The CW.