David Hill: NASCAR races should be shortened up – NASCAR news
David Hill, the chairman of FOX has asked to shorten the race time of NASCAR to three hours.
Presently, the race easily continues into the fourth hour.
During the annual pre-season media tour at Charlotte Motor Speedway, David suggested to revise the race time so it fits into three hour broadcast time. This will include a 40-minute pre-race coverage and 20 minutes of race recap. The stretch also contributes
to the poor ratings on television.
Hill said, “I think the race is far too long. There is more diversion, more opportunities for stuff than any other time in man’s history.”
FOX currently holds the broadcasting rights of first 13 races out of 38-race season. This season is shared by three networks. This partnership with NASCAR was started in 2001 which will continue until 2014.
Hill added that it is a bit early to say whether FOX continues their partnership beyond the current deal. FOX is interested in continuing with NASCAR, but as the business counts this season will determine the next contract. FOX wants to generate revenue
of it, but the sponsors will not be happy if they do not get enough time or shared screen space with other sponsors.
He also appreciated the efforts of Brian France, the chairman of NASCAR from dropping the rating and spectators.
“I really think they are trying,” he said. “I like them all, they are fantastic. They do know they have problems, and they are trying very hard to fix them. It's tough.”
Mike Helton, the president of NASCAR said that due to the span of the season the starting of this season could be shifted.
The shifting of event’s starting could be a benefit for ESPN, as it carries the second half of the season.
This season FOX will centre on the drivers more than racing mechanics and it will air all the races at 1 p.m. Hill wants NASCAR to enlighten the winnings of drivers in revised point structure. Considering that viewership comprising of males of ages
18-34 have been ignored in decreased significantly. It is because the drivers have been extensively ignored and their victory minimally recognised. Jimmie Johnson is a star himself. This sport was loved for the speed and the hard struggle for the victory.
By ignoring the drivers, being key factor and their victory, has lost its essence of glory.
NASCAR is all about the speed, drivers and their tough struggle to bag a win, rest is all around it. It is important to revise the winning points and creating a highlight on the drivers to retain the viewership.
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