For NASCAR fans, RaceDay wasn’t just a pre-race show—it was an event, an electrifying appetizer to the main course of high-speed action. Hosted by Kenny Wallace, the program became a staple for millions. So, when Fox Sports axed it in 2013, fans were left scratching their heads. Now, Wallace has lifted the curtain on the controversial decision, and it’s a mix of corporate ambition and harsh financial realities.
Why NASCAR RaceDay Ended
On his podcast, Coffee with Kenny, Wallace revealed a candid conversation with Fox Sports President Eric Shanks. According to Wallace, RaceDay wasn’t scrapped due to low ratings or lack of fan interest. Instead, the decision stemmed from Fox’s strategic pivot to launch FS1, its multi-sport cable network designed to rival ESPN.
“Eric Shanks walked right up to me, very sad, and said, ‘Kenny, I’m sorry. I didn’t want to get rid of NASCAR RaceDay, but we had to because we’re starting the new FS1,’” Wallace explained. “They killed it because they wanted to start a new network.”
But corporate rebranding wasn’t the only nail in the coffin. Wallace revealed that RaceDay’s $800,000 per episode production cost became an easy target during Fox’s transition. With its massive outdoor stages, satellite expenses, and a sizable crew, the show’s budget was deemed unsustainable.
Was It Greed or Necessary Evolution?
Critics have slammed Fox’s decision as prioritizing profits over passion, but Wallace provided a nuanced view. NASCAR’s meteoric rise in the early 2000s attracted a surge of media interest, but other sports like soccer and the NBA were also gaining momentum. To stay competitive, Fox chose to diversify its sports coverage, leaving NASCAR fans mourning a show they cherished.
Wallace’s Reaction to RaceDay’s End
While fans grieved the loss, Wallace took the shutdown in stride. Surprisingly, he admitted he was more focused on his racing career than his broadcasting accolades.
“I wanted to be known as a race car driver because I love racing. It didn’t bother me that much [when RaceDay ended],” Wallace said.
Defending His Brother’s Comeback
Wallace’s loyalty to NASCAR extends beyond the TV studio. Recently, he passionately defended his brother, Mike Wallace, who plans to return to the Daytona 500 at age 65 after a decade away. Sports journalist Nick Bromberg criticized the move, questioning Mike’s eligibility. Kenny didn’t hold back.
“Would not expect anything less out of you, Nick. You’ve always been a negative reporter,” Kenny fired back on X.
Mike Wallace, who last competed in the Cup Series in 2015, is set to drive the No. 66 Ford Mustang for MBM Motorsports in a bid to secure one of four open spots. The return holds deep emotional significance for the Wallace family as they recover from personal loss.
What’s Next for Kenny and Mike Wallace?
As Kenny Wallace continues to champion the sport’s integrity and his family’s legacy, his insights serve as a reminder of NASCAR’s evolving landscape. Whether it’s standing up for his brother or shedding light on behind-the-scenes drama, Wallace remains an unapologetic voice for fans and drivers alike.
The Verdict? NASCAR RaceDay’s end may have been inevitable in the face of corporate priorities, but its legacy remains untouchable. Meanwhile, Mike Wallace’s return adds another chapter to a storied family history, proving that the Wallace brothers’ passion for racing burns brighter than ever.
