Rick Allen was a mainstay in the NASCAR Cup Series booth for over a decade before he was surprisingly removed from his role ahead of the 2024 season
Rick Allen has landed a new job as an NFL stadium announcer(Image: Ethan Miller, Getty Images)
Former NASCAR Cup Series announcer Rick Allen has revealed he’s landed a new gig as the Carolina Panthers’ stadium announcer. Meanwhile, the Panthers fell to the Cleveland Browns earlier in their preseason opener after a spectacular performance from rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders, who’s earned praise from LeBron James.
Allen had been the voice of Cup Series coverage for more than a decade before being unexpectedly pulled from the booth during the 2024 season – a move that left NBA icon and 23XI Racing co-owner Michael Jordan baffled.
The switch came out of nowhere with little explanation, Allen revealed, as he was reassigned to the Xfinity Series while Leigh Diffey took over his Cup Series duties. Now, ahead of the eventful weekend at Glen Watkins – which saw Connor Zilisch suffer a scary fall at the victor lane – the broadcasting veteran has disclosed he’s secured a fresh opportunity with the Panthers.
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Taking to X, Allen shared a snapshot from the announcer’s booth at Bank of America Stadium.
The ex-Cup Series voice posted: “Let’s go!! Starting my new role as entertainment PA announcer for @Panthers football games! #KeepPounding.”
Racing fans rushed to show their excitement about Allen’s new position, with Kelly Earnhardt, daughter of racing legend Dale Earnhardt, responding: “This is awesome Rick!”
Another fan wrote: “You’ll do a fantastic job!! We miss you in racing!”
A third chimed in: “Miss you on the racing side. [You] Were better than anything they have now over there.”
A fourth added: “Miss hearing you in NASCAR, but this is awesome!”
On the gridiron, the Panthers suffered a 30-10 defeat in their preseason kickoff against the Browns, Sanders delivering an impressive performance for the visitors.
The fifth-round draft pick put on a stellar performance, completing 14 out of 23 passes for 138 yards and two touchdowns.