Marty Smith, one of the most recognizable faces at ESPN, is expanding his broadcasting portfolio. The veteran reporter and host has signed a deal with TNT Sports to cover five NASCAR Cup Series races this summer, according to Austin Karp of Sports Business Journal.
Smith, who has been with ESPN since 2006, will step back into the NASCAR world starting June 28 at Sonoma Raceway. TNT’s coverage will also include races at Chicagoland, Echopark, North Wilkesboro, and Indianapolis. It’s a return to Smith’s roots—he was a senior writer for NASCAR.com before joining the Worldwide Leader.
The move adds another layer to Smith’s already busy schedule. At ESPN, he’s covered everything from the Masters at Augusta National to the Kentucky Derby and the SEC beat. His versatility has earned him praise from ESPN executives. “Marty is one of our most versatile and distinctive voices – a relentless reporter and storyteller who consistently elevates ESPN’s coverage of college football, golf, and other major events,” said Mike McQuade, ESPN’s Executive Vice President of Sports Production. “His unique ability to connect with interview subjects allows our viewers to better understand athletes, coaches, and other prominent figures beyond their on-field performances.”
Smith’s deal with TNT won’t affect his role at ESPN. Just over a month ago, he signed a multi-year extension with the network. “Working at ESPN is such an immense joy,” Smith said in a press release. “I can’t believe it’s been 20 years. I walked in the door in 2006 with no concept of how to make television. I went to ESPN University, and I learned very quickly that television is a team sport, especially given the platforms and pressure our company commands, and the excellence it demands. My gratitude to Jimmy Pitaro, Burke Magnus and Mike McQuade is immeasurable. Likewise, my admiration for the countless talented show producers, feature producers and field generals who live in the mud with me every day is boundless. The most talented group in television, who have always championed the professional and the person I am and strive to be.”
Smith will remain a key part of ESPN’s college football coverage this fall. His ability to juggle multiple sports and networks is a testament to his skills as a broadcaster. In a media landscape where some have questioned the state of sports journalism, Smith’s dual role shows there’s still room for versatile storytellers. This isn’t the first time a high-profile figure has taken on multiple broadcasting gigs—recently, Kelsey Plum added a broadcaster role to her resume with Prime Video.
Smith’s NASCAR return is a homecoming of sorts. He cut his teeth covering the sport and has maintained a passion for it. TNT’s summer slate gives him a chance to reconnect with the racing community while continuing his ESPN duties. The network’s NASCAR coverage begins in late June, and Smith will be in the booth for five races, bringing his signature energy and storytelling.
For fans, Smith’s expanded role means more of his distinctive voice across both networks. Whether he’s breaking down SEC football, walking the fairways at Augusta, or calling the action at a NASCAR race, Smith remains one of the most engaging figures in sports media.
