In 2025, Danielle Trotta made a significant leap in her broadcasting career by joining Amazon Prime Video’s inaugural NASCAR Cup Series coverage. Her role as the host of the pre- and post-race shows involved providing in-depth analysis, conducting exclusive interviews, and offering behind-the-scenes insights, all delivered with her signature enthusiasm. But recently, her off-track comments have created a storm on social media, and fans are not taking it well.

The candid remarks she made were on the playoff format. In a tweet dated September 25, 2025, Trotta echoed Todd Fuhrman’s statement, “Is NASCAR’s playoff problem an issue with the sport, drivers, format etc or is it that by year end (from a ratings standpoint) they’re just going head to head with the 800lb gorilla in the room known as the NFL,” replying, “Say it louder for the people in the back Todd.” But the backlash to Trotta’s endorsement was swift and intense.

Danielle Trotta defends her controversial NASCAR comments

Many fans and analysts felt that her comments undermined the efforts to improve the playoff system and dismissed the complexities involved in the sport’s scheduling and audience engagement. But Trotta refused to apologize, adding, “Radical change is often met w criticism but I believe it’s necessary for health of the sport. Our playoff format is not why ratings drop in the fall, football is. If NASCAR wants casual fans & younger demo we should end our season before Sept 1st & offer all races thru network streaming apps & streaming services. We have to meet young people where they are.”

Critics argued that such a significant change in the season’s timing could alienate long-time fans and disrupt the traditional rhythm of the sport. The debate over NASCAR’s lengthy schedule has intensified, with drivers expressing both support and criticism regarding the current 36-race calendar.

Denny Hamlin has been particularly vocal, criticizing the lack of transparency in the schedule-making process. He stated, “They talk about collaboration, but NASCAR doesn’t collaborate at all with the teams, drivers, or anyone on schedule,” highlighting the concerns over the sport’s decision-making approach.

Conversely, some drivers advocate for maintaining the current schedule length. Joey Logano, for instance, argued that reducing the number of races could harm the sport’s momentum and economic stability. He explained, “I think it kills the momentum of the sport for one… you got to justify everybody’s salary somehow,” suggesting that fewer races might lead to decreased salaries and sponsorships.

While Alex Bowman has pointed out the challenges faced by road crews due to the demanding schedule, noting, “Their hours are insane. There are nights at HMS they’re there till 2 or 3 o’clock in the morning. The cars have to be ready, there’s no way around it.”

Mark Martin, a NASCAR Hall of Famer, has been outspoken about the influence of television networks on NASCAR’s scheduling decisions. He believes that the sport’s leadership prioritizes the interests of broadcasters over fan preferences. Martin once commented, “I’ll tell you something NASCAR is not going to put that poll out. They don’t want the answer. Because they don’t want the fans to know that it’s not up to the fans. It’s up to the TV.” Additionally, he has also been a vocal critic of the current NASCAR playoff system, which has also caused a feud between Martin and Trotta in the recent past.

But as Trotta stands by her views, she advocates for a reevaluation of NASCAR’s schedule to better align with modern viewing habits and to enhance the sport’s appeal to younger audiences. By implementing such changes, Trotta believes NASCAR can rejuvenate its brand and maintain its relevance in an increasingly competitive entertainment landscape, which is why she seems very excited for the 2026 schedule as well.

Danielle Trotta teases the big changes ahead in NASCAR

Trotta highlighted the fresh additions to NASCAR’s 2026 schedule during her interview on the Rubbin is Racing podcast. She sees Coronado, set on the naval base in San Diego, as a standout event with street-style racing potential: “Coronado, obviously, I think is going to be next year’s Mexico City. Like, what the Chicago street course race has been and what Mexico City was, I think Coronado on a military base in San Diego. I hope I see you guys there.” With all three national series racing at Coronado from June 19-21, the event promises bold track and a tribute to the U.S. Navy’s 250th anniversary.

While Phoenix has often been the championship stage, NASCAR confirmed that the final race in 2026 will return to Homestead-Miami Speedway. Trotta expressed concern about the potential impact on the season’s narrative: “Like, I feel like that’s the one that everybody’s circling. And then, to be honest with you, I think it’s getting lost in the sauce a little bit, going back to Homestead and crowning champion.” This shift could alter how teams approach momentum, risk-taking, and preparation throughout the season.

Despite the new venues and finale changes, traditional tracks such as Darlington, Martinsville, Phoenix, and Bristol remain integral to the season. Trotta emphasizes that while new street races like Coronado grab headlines, races at established tracks will continue to define team benchmarks and performance, setting the stage for championship battles across all three series.