NASCAR Demographics Shift: FOX Sports Boosts IndyCar’s Younger Audience
As the IndyCar Series concludes its inaugural season on FOX Sports, fresh Nielsen data reveals a significant demographic shift in its audience. Since transitioning from NBC, viewership among fans aged 2-17 has surged by 28%. More strikingly, the 18-34 age group has experienced an 86% increase, indicating a robust appeal among younger demographics.
Further analysis shows that the under-49 audience has grown by 54%, aligning with IndyCar’s strategic efforts to foster a long-term fan base. This is a notable turnaround from 2023 when 70% of IndyCar viewers were 55 or older, with just 5% in the coveted 18-34 bracket.
The demographic transformation is underscored by FOX Sports President of Insights and Analytics, Michael Mulvihill, who stated, “The growth of IndyCar among younger viewers is a vivid demonstration of the power of broadcast TV. We believed that by placing every race on the biggest platform, viewers would find it—and they have.”
An evaluation of the complete 17-race season, following the Borchetta Bourbon Music City Grand Prix, is expected to provide comprehensive insights into the final demographics for 2025. This data is anticipated to further validate FOX Sports’ strategic focus on enhancing IndyCar’s reach within younger audiences.
