ESPN to use split screen for NASCAR commercials
Dubbed “NASCAR NonStop," the commercials will be shown on the left side of the screen while the right side will display race coverage and the sponsor logo.
The scoring ticker across the top of the screen, which displays the current running order, will continue to be seen during the commercials as well.
The split screens will take effect at or near the halfway point of the race, with the first half of the race presented in the traditional commercial break format. The only exception might come during the Charlotte race on ABC, where some local advertising might remain full screen.
“Since we returned to NASCAR racing in 2007, one of the most common questions from our fans has been, ‘Why don’t you do the commercials side-by-side?’" ESPN executive vice president for content John Skipper said in a statement. “We’re very pleased to be able to do it now with NASCAR NonStop and showcase the advertiser while still showcasing the race.
“ESPN’s mission is to serve sports fans and this is a way to give the fans more racing action during the Chase For The NASCAR Sprint Cup."
During coverage of last Sunday’s Sprint Cup Series race at Dover, Fox split the screen for its final commercial break. TNT has used a split screen for commercials in its Daytona summer race coverage the last four years and is expected to continue its "wide open" coverage for Daytona again this year.
"NASCAR has the most dedicated and loyal fans in the world, and we are constantly trying to