In a move that revives a beloved name in automotive broadcasting, Fox Sports has announced the return of the Speed Channel, this time reimagined as a podcast series airing on FS1. The new format aims to capture the essence of the original network’s high-octane content while adapting to modern listening habits, with episodes debuting weekly starting next month. This development marks a significant chapter for motorsports enthusiasts who have longed for dedicated programming since the channel’s closure over a decade ago.
This is not the first time Fox tried to bring back the Speed Channel in 2022. It launched as a YouTube channel that now seems to no longer be operating.
The Speed Channel traces its roots back to December 31, 1995, when it launched as Speedvision under a partnership between cable providers Cox Cable, Times Mirror, Comcast, and Continental Cablevision. Initially conceived by executives like Roger Werner, E. Roger Williams, and Robert Scanlon, the network focused on a broad spectrum of motorized pursuits, including automotive restoration, boating adventures, and aviation feats. Programming featured documentaries, classic car showcases such as Dream Car Garage and My Classic Car, and live coverage of prestigious racing series like the Formula One World Championship, the Rolex Sports Car Series, and the American Le Mans Series. Distributed to around 3.2 million households at launch, Speedvision quickly built a niche audience passionate about all things fast and mechanical.
By 1998, Fox Entertainment Group had acquired a 30 percent stake in the network, setting the stage for greater changes. In 2001, Fox gained majority control through deals with Cox and Comcast, shifting the channel’s direction toward a more concentrated motorsports emphasis. On February 11, 2002, coinciding with the Daytona 500, Speedvision relaunched as Speed Channel, relocating its headquarters from Stamford, Connecticut, to Charlotte, North Carolina—the heart of NASCAR operations. This pivot intensified coverage of stock car racing, introducing shows dedicated to daily updates, race previews, and post-event analysis. From 2003 onward, the network broadcast the NASCAR Truck Series in full, along with practice sessions, qualifying rounds, and special events like the Sprint All-Star Race. Reality programming also flourished, with series exploring car customizations, high-stakes drag racing, and behind-the-scenes garage life.
In 2005, the name was streamlined to simply Speed, reflecting its maturing brand. The network expanded its reach, surpassing 70 million households in North America by the late 2000s and venturing into international markets. Versions appeared in Canada shortly after the U.S. debut, in Latin America by 2005, and in Australia in 2010. Domestically, Speed diversified with streaming options through Speed 2 in 2010 and held rights to Formula One until 2012. However, as Fox sought to compete in the broader sports media landscape, the channel’s fate changed. On August 17, 2013, Speed signed off in the United States, replaced by Fox Sports 1—a general sports network that absorbed much of its live racing content while incorporating college athletics, soccer, and mixed martial arts. International feeds persisted briefly but were rebranded as Fox Sports Racing by 2015, leaving a void for dedicated automotive programming.
Now, in 2026, the Speed Channel name resurfaces in podcast form, hosted on FS1’s digital platforms and broadcast during select time slots on the network. The series will delve into current motorsports trends, featuring in-depth discussions on NASCAR developments, emerging electric vehicle racing, and global circuits like Formula E and IndyCar. Episodes are planned to run 45 to 60 minutes, blending expert analysis with historical retrospectives and fan-focused segments on vehicle technology advancements. Fox executives have positioned this revival as a bridge between the channel’s storied past and the evolving media consumption patterns, where podcasts offer flexibility for on-the-go listeners.
This podcast iteration promises to honor Speed’s legacy by incorporating elements from its golden era, such as breakdowns of classic races and interviews with industry figures—though adapted to an audio-first medium. Supplementary video clips will be available via FS1’s app, enhancing the experience for visual learners. The move comes amid a resurgence in motorsports interest, fueled by streaming services and social media, where fans crave specialized content beyond mainstream broadcasts.
For longtime followers, the return signals a nod to the channel’s influence in shaping automotive culture. During its heyday, Speed not only covered races but also fostered communities around car building and restoration, inspiring generations of enthusiasts. As the podcast launches, it could pave the way for further expansions, potentially including spin-off series or live events. With FS1’s established sports infrastructure, the revived Speed Channel stands poised to accelerate into a new era, keeping the spirit of speed alive for both veteran fans and newcomers alike.
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