NHRA to switch from ESPN to Fox Sports

Fox Sports has struck a deal to replace rival US pay-television broadcaster ESPN as the rights-holder of the National Hot Rod Association motor-racing series.

The deal will begin in 2016, with Fox Sports 1 showing series coverage. Four events will also be shown on the Fox network as part of the “long-term” agreement.

The rights include the Friday and Saturday qualifying sessions as well as at least 16 Sunday races on a live basis. Fox Sports 1 and 2 will broadcast repeats of selected races.

The deal, which includes at least 450 hours per year, also covers rights on the Fox Sports Racing channel in Canada and the Caribbean, as well as via the Fox Sports GO application.