Denny Hamlin, driver of the #11 Joe Gibbs Racing car, recently secured the pole position at Pocono Raceway ahead of the Great American Getaway 400 with an impressive 172.599 mph lap. However, before hitting the track on race day, Hamlin took time to assess the NASCAR Mexico weekend coverage from his home. Watching the NASCAR Cup Series on Amazon Prime Video, Hamlin delivered his verdict on the broadcast team and race quality, offering insights that reflect his perspective as both a top driver and a seasoned racing analyst. His thoughts offer valuable feedback on how the new broadcasting format connects with audiences.
Following a week without his usual “Actions Detrimental” podcast episode, Hamlin opened up about his experience watching the NASCAR Mexico City race weekend from afar, focusing primarily on the broadcast’s presentation and its ability to keep viewers engaged despite some quieter moments on the track.
Why Hamlin Believes Prime Video’s Broadcast Elevates the NASCAR Viewing Experience
Although Denny Hamlin did not participate in any laps during the Mexico event, he tuned in closely to the Amazon Prime Video coverage that millions of NASCAR fans also watch. He openly admitted to feeling some FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) on Friday but found the broadcast team met his high standards. Hamlin praised the production’s quality, especially given the nature of the Viva Mexico 250 race.
The event itself was dominated by Shane van Gisbergen, who led from start to finish, winning with a remarkable 16-second margin—the largest victory gap in 16 years. While the race lacked the typical close competition excitement, Hamlin noted that the coverage kept his attention throughout. The broadcast team’s storytelling, pre- and post-race shows, and driver interviews created an ongoing narrative that made the event enjoyable to watch.
Hamlin remarked on this approach, saying,
“I thought it was really good, obviously from kind of a broadcast standpoint,”
and added,
“I was entertained even when the racing wasn’t super entertaining… There were lulls, where maybe I got a little sleepy. That’s just part of it. Sometimes you have someone that wins by 16 seconds. That’s okay.”
The broadcast’s ability to weave in additional content beyond the race helped maintain viewer interest. Hamlin highlighted the inclusion of deep analysis and relaxed moments like ranking driver burnouts and sharing lighthearted moments with drinks after the race, which set this coverage apart from previous broadcasts by FOX.
Of particular note was the broadcast booth, which featured prominent NASCAR figures Dale Earnhardt Jr., Steve Letarte, and Adam Alexander. Their racer-driven insights and chemistry struck a chord with Hamlin, reinforcing the broadcast’s authenticity and passion.
The Impact of Veteran Racers in the Broadcast Booth
Denny Hamlin emphasized the importance of having former drivers and crew chiefs in the booth who deeply understand the sport. He stated,
“They have racers that are in the booth. If you look at the kind of cast of people they have, these guys know the sport in and out. Dale Jr. hosts a podcast and talks about it each and every week. Steve Letarte is one of the best at keeping you constantly engaged. The rapport that they have with each other is so good.”
The strong connection between Earnhardt Jr. and Letarte contributes significantly to the broadcast’s appeal. Their history includes Letarte serving as Earnhardt Jr.’s championship-winning crew chief before transitioning to a respected analyst role in 2014. Letarte’s technical knowledge and straightforward commentary remain key to engaging races and creating insightful narratives for viewers.
In a media landscape where race broadcasts often dictate fan engagement levels, Hamlin’s praise signals that Amazon Prime Video’s approach with this nucleus of talent could redefine expectations for race coverage.
The End of an Era: Dale Earnhardt Jr. Wraps Up Amazon Prime Video Stint
As the limited five-race Amazon Prime Video package crosses the finish line at Pocono Raceway, Dale Earnhardt Jr. reflects on the experience with bittersweet feelings. This short-term deal was always intended as a limited engagement, but the quick pace left a strong impression on both him and viewers.
Earnhardt Jr. shared on his podcast, the Dale Jr. Download,
“We’re coming up on the final race of the Amazon five-race package,”
and added,
“I knew it would be quick. It’s going to be…it’s bittersweet, because it’s been a great experience for me.”
The broadcast team, consisting of Earnhardt Jr., Letarte, Adam Alexander, as well as analysts Carl Edwards and Corey LaJoie, brought a dynamic mix of energy, insider knowledge, and genuine enthusiasm to each race. This combination resonated well with fans and industry insiders alike.
Dale Jr. commented on the team’s overall performance, saying,
“The whole team, really, has been really good,”
before revealing,
“One race to go, and then us three will move on to TNT.”
The Prime Video broadcasts have been acclaimed for innovative production elements such as their detailed pre- and post-race shows and for fostering a conversational, relaxed tone that feels authentic. Steve Letarte acknowledged the viewers’ positive reaction, noting,
“We’ve gotten a lot of positive feedback, and I appreciate that,”
highlighting the team’s effectiveness at keeping fans involved even during less intense racing moments.
Looking Ahead: Can TNT Maintain Prime Video’s Elevated Broadcasting Standard?
With the Amazon Prime Video segment concluding, attention turns to TNT’s upcoming role in NASCAR broadcasting. Dale Earnhardt Jr. expressed cautious optimism but also acknowledged uncertainty about whether TNT could match the enthusiasm and quality raised by the Prime Video broadcasts. He stated plainly,
“It remains to be seen if they can reach the bar Prime Video has set,”
underscoring the elevated expectations following this successful five-race run.
This transition marks a significant period for NASCAR broadcasting, as the industry closely watches to see whether this new model of racetrack storytelling, enriched by seasoned racers and analysts, will continue and grow.
For fans, the Amazon Prime Video NASCAR Mexico broadcast represented more than just coverage of a race; it was an example of how combining expert insight with engaging presentation can revitalize the viewer experience. This new standard could inspire broader changes in how motorsports broadcasting evolves.
