NASCAR typically races every weekend during the season, except for rare breaks like Easter. That kind of schedule keeps die-hard fans hooked and happy all year. Still, for some, the time between Sundays can feel like a long break. Luckily, there are plenty of podcasts to keep them informed and entertained.
There’s Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s “Dale Jr. Download,” which is always packed with good guests and insights. Or “Door Bumper Clear” for fans who like it raw, especially with spotter Freddie Kraft giving his unfiltered takes. And for something that blends both styles, fans turn to veteran Kevin Harvick’s “Happy Hour.”
Harvick breaks down the previous race weekend in detail and brings on guests who keep things interesting. Speaking of which, his most recent guest is a special one. He’s best known in the Formula 1 world as a commentator, but thanks to Netflix, pretty much everyone in motorsports knows him now.
Kevin Harvick’s Latest Guest Is Will Buxton!
If the name still doesn’t ring a bell, think of the guy who shows up in nearly every episode of Netflix’s “Drive to Survive.” Will Buxton generally breaks down the action and gives commentary on what’s happening in each episode, and now, he’s also the newest voice on IndyCar.
The “Happy Hour” podcast episode with Buxton hasn’t aired yet, but Harvick shared the news on X with a teaser photo to build some buzz. The episode is expected to drop Thursday, May 8.
Thursday! pic.twitter.com/LSda1JGSSj
— HarvickHappyHour (@HarvickHappyPod)
Even though Harvick’s content is mostly focused on NASCAR, several fans might tune in just to hear from Buxton — especially to see how a British guy is keeping up with calling a series that’s deeply American.
This season, FOX has the rights to the full IndyCar schedule, and they surprised many by picking Buxton as the lead play-by-play commentator. He’s joined by James Hinchcliffe and Townsend Bell.
Both Hinchcliffe and Bell are well-known in American motorsports, with past stints in IMSA. But Buxton is new to the role and even got some playful ribbing from IndyCar drivers.
Before the season began, drivers gave Buxton tips on how to call the races. One included when six-time IndyCar champ Scott Dixon joked, “He’s got to get his southern twang on and start to embrace the American language a little bit more.”
Or when Alex Palou warned him, “It’s going to be tough for him to keep up with Hinch. Good luck, man.”
Even Harvick chimed in on Buxton’s new gig, though he was one of the few with nothing but praise.
Harvick said, “I like listening to Will Buxton. I love his opinions. I love everything that he does. Bringing a fresh face into the IndyCar world and allowing him to talk about what’s going on will kind of bring a familiar face from more of an international standpoint than what we have here in the United States. I think that will be a great addition.”
Now that Buxton is sitting down with Harvick, it’ll be fun to hear how he’s holding up in his new role.