TNT Sports is reshaping its NASCAR coverage for the second edition of the In‑Season Challenge, adding fresh faces to both the broadcast booth and the studio desk.
Jimmie Johnson Joins as Studio Analyst
The former seven‑time champion will serve as a studio analyst for three marquee events, breaking down the action at Sonoma Raceway on June 28, North Wilkesboro Speedway on July 19 and the championship finale at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on July 26.
Johnson’s résumé includes stints as an analyst for NBC’s Indy 500 coverage in 2021 and 2024, as well as temporary roles at Daytona and Talladega, giving him a credible voice that complements TNT’s growing roster.
Marty Smith Takes the Host’s Seat
Marty Smith, who spent nearly a decade as the lead reporter for ESPN’s NASCAR coverage, will now anchor the five‑week tournament alongside Dale Earnhardt Jr., Steve Letarte, Jamie McMurray and the rest of the on‑air team.
Smith’s transition from pit‑road reporter to primary host brings a seasoned perspective to pre‑ and post‑race segments, while Shannon Spake will continue to work the pit lane with Marty Snider and Danielle Trotta.
A Broader Talent Push
In addition to Johnson and Smith, TNT will enlist Jeff Burton as a fill‑in analyst for the Chicagoland Speedway and EchoPark Speedway dates, while Dylan “Mamba” Smith returns as a Bleacher Report correspondent, adding depth to the broadcast lineup.
The network also highlighted the presence of Adam Alexander and the Legacy Motor Club partnership, underscoring a strategy that blends veteran insight with fresh energy to sustain the 52 percent viewership jump recorded at last year’s Indianapolis finale.