Carl Edwards believed that even after joining Prime Video as an analyst, he might not fully grasp whether NASCAR fans were aware of the transition to streaming five races on Prime Video or how to access them.
That changed when he chatted with a neighbor.
“We were discussing various topics, and he remarked, ‘Hey, you’re involved in some kind of TV project.’ I initially thought, this guy is 85, and I’ll need to explain it to him,” Edwards shared. “I started explaining, and he responded, ‘Oh, yes. I have Prime. I’ll check it out.’
The inaugural Prime Video race on Sunday is the Coca-Cola 600, which is not only NASCAR’s longest race but also coincides with the biggest day in motorsports, featuring the Formula One Monaco Grand Prix and the Indianapolis 500 at Charlotte Motor Speedway.
Prime Video has secured a seven-year deal with NASCAR.
“They’re eager to establish a greater sense of comfort,” commented Alex Strand, senior coordinating producer at Live Sports. “When we introduced ‘Thursday Night Football’ to Prime, much of our focus was on meeting viewer expectations. There’s a trust that viewers place in us to deliver the sport they cherish.”
To enhance their production, Prime Video is collaborating with NBC Sports, which has been involved with NASCAR since 2015. This partnership returns to what it was in 2022 when Sunday Night Football debuted.
In the booth, Adam Alexander calls every play in the CW Xfinity series, as well as Cup Series races on TNT.
Analysts Steve Letarte and Dale Earnhardt Jr. are reuniting. Earnhardt Jr. has spent six seasons with NBC (2018-2023), while Letarte has been with NBC since 2015.
Alexander explained that his race-calling approach remains consistent, regardless of the network.
“I can be the guy beside two analysts who clearly understand the ins and outs and convey the message to fans about what’s going well,” he stated. “It’s apparent to see new partners entering the sport, and while everything seems altered, Prime maintains a balance of fresh concepts while respecting NASCAR’s legacy.”
The only newcomers are Edwards and Corey LaJoie, who will provide pre- and post-race coverage.
Edwards thought that after stepping away in 2017, he would pivot to analysis but turned down offers from various networks until Prime Video reached out earlier this year.
“I feel the timing is perfect. I’m pleasantly surprised by how warmly the sport has embraced me,” said Edwards, a 28-time Cup Series winner. “I wasn’t quite sure about this opportunity, but Prime came to visit me in Missouri. We sat at my kitchen table discussing it with my family. I’m thrilled they made the trip. It’s going to be an adventure.”
Prime Video offers a distinctive perspective on the race. The Green Flag Race includes a commercial double box format designed to ensure viewers don’t miss any action. There are also highlight reels capturing key moments to keep viewers engaged.
Regarding innovations in in-race strategy, Prime is still experimenting as it seeks to replicate its approach from NFL coverage, simplifying complex issues for viewers.
“I believe people are going to find it enjoyable. It should provide a smooth experience without any hurdles for the fans,” Edwards noted.
___
AP Auto Race: https://apnews.com/hub/auto-racing
Source: apnews.com