Full Breakdown
Xfinity Series Championship Race to Air Commercial-Free
10/25/2025, 1:23:56 PM
Uninterrupted Finale for NASCAR Fans
The NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship Race, set for November 1, 2025, at Phoenix Raceway, will feature a significant broadcasting change: the final stage of the race will air commercial-free. This decision comes as Xfinity concludes its 11-year tenure as the title sponsor of the series, which will be rebranded as the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series starting in 2026. The race will be broadcast live on The CW Network, with coverage beginning at 7:30 PM ET.
Xfinity's partnership with NASCAR and The CW aims to provide fans with an uninterrupted viewing experience during the final 127 laps of the championship race. Matt Lederer, Vice President of Brand Partnerships and Engagement at Comcast, stated, “As our time as title sponsor comes to a close, we wanted to do something special to say thank you.” This commercial-free format is a rare occurrence in NASCAR, where broadcasts typically include numerous advertisements.
Celebrating a Legacy
Throughout its sponsorship, Xfinity has played a pivotal role in promoting emerging talent within the sport. Champions such as Chris Buescher (2015), Daniel Suárez (2016), and Tyler Reddick (2018, 2019) have all benefited from the exposure provided by the series. The final race will also feature a reunion of past champions from 2015 to 2024, who will give the ceremonial command to start engines, highlighting the legacy of Xfinity in the NASCAR community.
Brian Herbst, NASCAR's Executive Vice President, Chief Media & Revenue Officer, remarked, “The NASCAR Xfinity Series has always been about showcasing the next generation of stars, and for more than a decade, our partners at Xfinity have helped elevate that mission.” This event not only marks the end of Xfinity's sponsorship but also serves as a celebration of the series' impact on the sport.
Official Statements & Responses
Brad Schwartz, President of The CW Network, expressed enthusiasm for the commercial-free finale, stating, “Delivering the final stage of the championship race commercial-free is a perfect way to thank our passionate fans who make this series so special.” The decision to air the race without commercials is seen as a strategic move to enhance viewer engagement and solidify The CW's commitment to live sports.
Criticism & Opposition
While the commercial-free finale has been largely welcomed by fans, some critics point out that such a move may not be sustainable for future broadcasts, as commercial revenue is crucial for networks. However, many fans have taken to social media to express their gratitude, with comments like, “Thank you, Xfinity. You could’ve drifted off into the sunset, but you did something classy.”
What's Next
As the NASCAR Xfinity Series transitions to the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series in 2026, Xfinity is expected to maintain its involvement in NASCAR as a Premier Partner. The upcoming championship race on November 1 is anticipated to be a significant event, not only for its commercial-free format but also as a farewell to a brand that has significantly influenced the series over the past decade.
