NASCAR Fans Erupt as FOX Suffers Failure at Cook Out Clash
During the NASCAR Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray, fans of the sport were quick to complain about a frustrating hitch when FOX suffered a glitch with its graphics system.
This technical failure left many without access to the leaderboard while practice sessions were taking place, leading to an outburst of complaints among dedicated NASCAR fans.
X user @Northstar2005 questioned the issue:
“Were the Fox NASCAR graphics always this bad? They’ve been too quick for me to snap a picture, but the Hocevar and Larson ones were particularly brutal…”
Sean Gardner/Getty Images
Were the Fox NASCAR graphics always this bad? They’ve been too quick for me to snap a picture, but the Hocevar and Larson ones were particularly brutal…
— Charlie (@Northstar2005) February 2, 2025
Another added:
“Of course when times actually matter they have a ‘graphics problem’ welcome to NASCAR on Fox.”
Of course when times actually matter they have a “graphics problem” welcome to NASCAR on Fox #NASCAR
— Austin (@afullerton1995) February 2, 2025
Veteran commentator Mike Joy took a moment during the broadcast to acknowledge this hiccup, but that did little to calm the growing dissatisfaction among viewers.
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For those watching, the missing leaderboard meant they couldn’t fully keep track of the action, leading to a swell of irritation expressed across social media platforms where fans voiced their disappointment with FOX’s coverage and its reliability.
@EricEstepp17 is it just me or is it not a good look for FOX to be missing the leaderboard on the very first qualifying session of the year.
No excuse imo for that with their current reputation.#NASCAR
— Noah Larson (@its_XIRON) February 2, 2025
With new competitors like TNT Sports and Prime Video beginning their own coverage of the sport, FOX’s viewers are left wondering if the network can maintain its footing. The quick resolution of the graphics malfunction, restoring coverage before crucial qualifying, offered some relief, but not before the damage had been done to FOX’s credibility among its viewership.
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The venue of the Cook Out Clash, Bowman Gray, holds a place in NASCAR lore, often referred to as “The Madhouse” for its challenging short-track racing. It’s history stretches back to when it hosted Cup races from 1958-1971. This clash at Bowman Gray this year was meant to contrast with the innovative formats seen in LA Clash, an attempt to lure new audiences while still honoring the traditional roots of the sport. Its quarter-mile track brings a unique dynamic to racing, with tight turns that famously demand expert handling skills from drivers.
Amid the hiccup, the on-track action didn’t disappoint, with some aggressive driving seen during the Modified race. This comes as all entries prepare for a packed weekend of practices, Heat Races, and a Last Chance Qualifier ahead of the famed 200-lap race.
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