TNT Sports is set to broaden its NASCAR coverage by enlisting seven‑time Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson as a race‑day analyst for the upcoming In‑Season Challenge.
Johnson, who previously served as a commentator for NBC Sports, will make his first appearance on June 28 at Sonoma Raceway during the Toyota/Save Mart 350, and will also provide insight at North Wilkesboro Speedway on July 19 and the season‑ending event at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on July 26.
All three races will be televised on TNT and streamed via HBO Max, ensuring a multi‑platform presence for viewers across the United States.
A New Era of Analytical Talent
The move comes as TNT seeks to bolster its pre‑ and post‑race programming with seasoned voices. ESPN’s Marty Smith will join the network as a pre‑ and post‑race host, while former driver Jeff Burton will step in as a studio analyst for races not covered by Johnson.
The In‑Season Challenge itself is a five‑race, single‑elimination tournament that forms part of the Cup Series schedule, featuring events at tracks such as Chicagoland Speedway and Atlanta Motor Speedway in addition to the three highlighted by Johnson.
TNT’s return to NASCAR broadcasting marks a resurgence since its initial partnership that ran from 1983 to 2014, and the current arrangement reflects a strategic focus on delivering high‑stakes content during the mid‑season swing.