# NASCAR Momentum with Work Ahead

> NASCAR CEO Steve O'Donnell says the sport has momentum but needs work in five key areas.
- Title: NASCAR Momentum with Work Ahead · Autoweek | Shortify
- Summary: NASCAR CEO Steve O'Donnell says the sport has momentum but needs work in five key areas.
- Keywords: nascar, steve odonnell, state of the sport, competition, audience growth, schedule strategy, international racing, at-track fan development, homestead-miami speedway, oreilly auto parts series, cups series, czechia
- Source: Autoweek — https://autoweek.com/racing/nascar/a74360451/nascar-has-momentum-but-theres-work-to-do
- Author: Deb Williams
- Published: 2026-11-06T18:04:39+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: nascar, steve odonnell, state of the sport, competition, audience growth, schedule strategy, international racing, at-track fan development, homestead-miami speedway, oreilly auto parts series, cups series, czechia
## NASCAR Momentum
With the antitrust suit settled, a new auto manufacturer entering the sport, and corporate interest rising, NASCAR CEO Steve O'Donnell described the sport as having encouraging momentum.
## Five Pillars of Progress
O'Donnell outlined five pillars for growth: competition, audience growth and engagement, schedule and media strategy, international reach, and at-track fan development.
## Fan Engagement Focus
O'Donnell emphasized connecting with new fans, noting interest from 18- to 34-year-olds is at its highest level since 2013.
## Social Media Growth
NASCAR reported a 34 percent increase in social media impressions compared to last year, with continued focus on gaming platforms to attract new fans.
## International Expansion
Cup races aired in more than 185 countries in 25 languages this year, with record attendance in Czechia and first female winners in Brazil.
## Future Goals
O'Donnell plans to work with race teams on YouTube and improve storytelling to create more avenues for fans to engage with the sport.
## Key takeaway

NASCAR CEO Steve O'Donnell states the sport has encouraging momentum but requires improvement in competition, audience growth, schedule strategy, international reach, and fan development.