In a move that has sent shockwaves through the motorsport world, NASCAR legends Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Kevin Harvick have secured a historic deal with FOX Sports, catapulting their passion project, the Solid Rock Carriers CARS Tour, into the national spotlight. This groundbreaking agreement, announced in April 2025, promises to revolutionize short-track racing by bringing the CARS Tour to FOX Sports 1 (FS1) during the NASCAR All-Star Race weekend at North Wilkesboro Speedway on May 16, 2025. The deal not only elevates the series’ visibility but also sets the stage for an exciting new chapter in grassroots racing.
The CARS Tour, acquired by Earnhardt, Harvick, Jeff Burton, and Justin Marks in January 2023, has long been a breeding ground for NASCAR’s future stars, producing talents like William Byron and Ty Gibbs. What began as a regional late-model series has now evolved into a powerhouse, thanks to the vision and dedication of its high-profile owners. The FOX deal marks a significant milestone, with the Late Model Stock Car race moving to a primetime Friday night slot following NASCAR Cup Series qualifying. This strategic placement ensures maximum exposure, pitting the CARS Tour against NASCAR’s All-Star festivities in a bold move to showcase short-track racing to a national audience.
Earnhardt, a NASCAR Hall of Famer, expressed his excitement on his Dale Jr. Download podcast, revealing that he and Harvick will take to the broadcast booth alongside CARS Tour announcer Eric Brennan to call the race live on FS1. “This is an incredible opportunity for our drivers and teams to showcase themselves,” Earnhardt said. “Kevin and I are going to have a lot of fun calling that race.” Harvick echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the series’ potential to grow and attract new fans. Their presence in the booth, combined with FloRacing’s continued coverage for subscribers, guarantees a dynamic viewing experience.
The deal’s significance extends beyond television exposure. By aligning with FOX Sports, the CARS Tour gains access to a broader platform, offering drivers, teams, and sponsors unprecedented opportunities. CARS Tour executive director Kip Childress highlighted the mission to “put our drivers, teams, and partners in front of as many race fans as possible.” This exposure is expected to attract new talent and investment, further solidifying the series’ role as a vital stepping stone to NASCAR’s top tiers.
Fans are buzzing with anticipation, speculating about what Earnhardt and Harvick might unveil next. Rumors suggest potential expansions, new tracks, or even bigger media partnerships in 2026. The duo’s commitment to innovation—evidenced by their 2025 schedule adjustments and the introduction of a West Tour—hints at more surprises to come. With North Wilkesboro’s revival as a backdrop, this deal not only honors racing’s roots but also propels the CARS Tour into a bold future, forever changing the landscape of short-track racing.
