TNT Sports to continue NASCAR split-screen ad format

TNT Sports plans to continue its innovative broadcasting approach for NASCAR coverage next year, focusing on minimizing interruptions during green-flag racing. The network has utilized a "double-box" split-screen format during traditional broadcasts to allow advertisements to run while maintaining visual race action.

Additionally, the streaming partner HBO Max offers an ad-free experience for green-flag action, where viewers can hear the natural sounds of the engines even when commentators are on a break. Craig Barry, TNT Sports EVP and Chief Content Officer, expressed a desire to move closer to a soccer-style broadcasting model, stating, “If I had my way, it would look more like soccer.”

The shift comes as the network seeks to improve fan engagement. During its five-race summer coverage, TNT Sports averaged 2.2 million viewers, an increase from 2.1 million the previous year. TNT Sports and HBO Max are both part of Warner Bros. Discovery.