FOX Sports revives the iconic SPEED brand with Kevin Harvick and Will Buxton, promising global motorsports coverage and reigniting fan passion
In a move that's sure to rev up excitement among motorsports enthusiasts, FOX Sports has announced the revival of the iconic SPEED brand as an all-new show and podcast. This modern iteration promises to celebrate winners across the globe, spanning NASCAR, INDYCAR, Formula 1, MotoGP, and beyond. Set to premiere on February 23, 2026, the program will deliver fresh episodes twice a week, accessible via FOX One and a variety of digital and social channels affiliated with FOX Sports, NASCAR, and INDYCAR.
This relaunch comes at a time when fans have been clamoring for more comprehensive coverage, harkening back to the golden era of motorsports broadcasting. The original SPEED channel, which began as Speedvision in 1995, was a haven for gearheads and racing aficionados. It evolved into a 24-hour powerhouse dedicated to all things automotive and motorsports, covering everything from high-octane races to car culture deep dives.
If it had wheels and an engine, SPEED was there to showcase it. The channel's programming was exhaustive, featuring live events, behind-the-scenes features, and expert analysis that kept viewers glued to their screens. FOX's involvement deepened in 2002 when it began broadcasting NASCAR events, solidifying SPEED as the go-to destination for American motorsports fans.
However, the landscape shifted dramatically in 2013 with the launch of FS1, FOX's flagship sports network. SPEED was phased out, leading to a significant reduction in dedicated motorsports content. This decision drew widespread criticism from the community, who felt that the breadth of coverage—once encompassing nearly every major racing series—had been narrowed to a select few.
Today, FOX holds broadcasting rights primarily to the NASCAR Cup Series, the IndyCar Series, and the NHRA drag racing events. While these remain high-profile properties, the absence of broader international and niche motorsports programming left a void that many fans argued diminished the sport's visibility and appeal.
Enter the new SPEED: a dynamic show and podcast designed to bridge that gap and reignite the passion of yesteryear. At the helm is a powerhouse duo of hosts and analysts. Veteran F1 broadcaster Will Buxton, known for his play-by-play work on INDYCAR on FOX and his role in the film F1, will host the program. Buxton's charisma and deep knowledge of open-wheel racing make him an ideal anchor for a show that aims to span multiple disciplines.
Joining him is former NASCAR Cup Series champion and Daytona 500 winner Kevin Harvick. Harvick, who retired from full-time racing but remains a beloved figure in the sport, brings insider insights and unfiltered opinions to the table. During the recent Daytona 500 broadcast on FOX, Harvick teased the show's ambitious scope, stating, "We're going to cover it all on that show." This promise suggests a format that goes beyond mere race recaps, delving into stories of triumph, strategy breakdowns, driver interviews, and perhaps even fan interactions.
The timing of this revival couldn't be better. Motorsports is experiencing a global renaissance, fueled by Netflix series like Drive to Survive for F1 and 100 Days to Indy for INDYCAR, which have attracted younger, more diverse audiences. NASCAR continues to innovate with new tracks and formats, while MotoGP's high-stakes drama keeps international fans engaged. Yet, in the U.S., centralized coverage has been fragmented across networks like NBC, ESPN, and streaming services. FOX's decision to resurrect SPEED addresses this by creating a unified platform that "celebrates winners around the world," as described in the announcement.
Critics of FOX's past reductions in motorsports programming may view this as a step toward redemption. The original SPEED Channel wasn't just about racing; it fostered a community around automotive lifestyle, from custom car builds to historical retrospectives. If the new iteration captures even a fraction of that essence, it could become a staple for fans old and new. With episodes dropping twice weekly, there's potential for timely reactions to weekend races, mid-week analysis, and off-season content to keep the conversation alive year-round.
Looking ahead, the success of SPEED will hinge on its ability to blend nostalgia with innovation. Harvick and Buxton's chemistry will be key, as their contrasting backgrounds—NASCAR grit meets international polish—could provide balanced, engaging commentary. In an era where sports media is increasingly digital-first, SPEED's multi-platform approach via FOX One, social channels, and podcasts positions it for broad reach. For longtime fans mourning the loss of the original channel, this revival offers hope.
For newcomers, it's an accessible entry point into the thrilling world of motorsports. As February 23 approaches, the engines are warming up—get ready for SPEED to hit the track once more.