Leigh Diffey

NASCAR News: IndyCar TV announcer Diffey moves to NASCAR

NASCAR on NBC will have a new voice behind the Cup Series broadcast when the playoffs begin – Leigh Diffey.

Diffey, a veteran play-by-play commentator, is set to take over the lead role for NASCAR on NBC starting with the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona on Aug. 24.

The Australian will bring a new vibe to the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs, replacing longtime analyst Rick Allen. Allen will continue to work with NASCAR on NBC throughout the remainder of the season as the lead voice for NASCAR Xfinity Series coverage.

NASCAR inked a deal with The CW, beginning next year, which will be the official broadcast partner for the Xfinity Series. The CW will air the Xfinity Series playoff races this year, as NASCAR worked out a deal to have NBC Sports produce each broadcast, giving viewers a chance to adjust to the change.

Diffey has been NBC Sports’ lead NTT IndyCar Series commentator for over a decade. He presents events in a shilling voice that sends chills up the viewers’ spine.

Diffey will likely continue to serve in this role in 2025 as IndyCar moves to FOX. NBC will have fewer races as NASCAR signed a major media rights deal, which includes 10 races for Amazon and Warner Brothers Discovery.

As Diffey departs the IndyCar Series, Kevin Lee will assume the role of lead commentator for the open-wheel division.