MRN Launches 55th NASCAR Season

Motor Racing Network (MRN) celebrated the start of its 55th season of live NASCAR broadcasting with the Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium, a historic event marking NASCAR's return to the venue for the first time since 1971. The event, held on February 2, saw Chase Elliott emerge victorious in a thrilling race at the narrow quarter-mile track affectionately known as the 'Madhouse'.

With the exhibition race now in the rearview mirror, the focus shifts to the DAYTONA 500, NASCAR's most prestigious race, scheduled for February 16 at the Daytona International Speedway, known as the World Center of Racing.

Mike Bagley

The season also brings changes to the MRN broadcast team following the retirement of veteran announcer Jeff Striegle. Mike Bagley, a familiar voice on MRN and co-host of The Morning Drive on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, will join Alex Hayden in the broadcast booth. "Mike plays a valuable role in NASCAR as one of our sport's most trusted voices," stated Chris Schwartz, President of Motor Racing Network. "The transition to the booth will be seamless given his experience and rapport with the broadcast team."

Tim Catalfamo will step up to fill Bagley's previous role, joining lead turn announcer Dave Moody. Catalfamo, who has been with MRN since 2019, received high praise from Schwartz: "I recall a race at Darlington a few years back when Tim filled in for Mike and called a terrific race. He's earned this opportunity."

The MRN team at Daytona will also include NASCAR Hall of Famer Rusty Wallace, along with Kyle Rickey, lead pit reporter Steve Post, Chris Willner, and Alan Cavanna, who will cover all the action on pit road.

The network's coverage of the DAYTONA 500 will kick off with NASCAR Live presents: The 500 Club on Monday, followed by a series of events leading up to the main race, including pole qualifying, media day, the Duel at Daytona qualifying races, and the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Fresh From Florida 250.

The racing action continues throughout the weekend, culminating with the DAYTONA 500 on Sunday, February 16, starting with NASCAR Live Raceday as the lead-in to the main event.