The CW Network and The Savannah Bananas Partner With Viking Motorsports
MOORESVILLE, NC (July 18, 2025) – The CW Network and the Savannah Bananas have partnered with Viking Motorsports to bring the high-energy spirit of “Banana Ball” to the NASCAR Xfinity Series and national television. As part of the campaign leading up to the Bananas’ broadcast debut, Viking Motorsports will unveil a Savannah Bananas and CW-themed No. 99 Chevrolet, driven by Matt DiBenedetto, during the NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Saturday, July 26.
The eye-catching paint scheme celebrates the live broadcast television debut of the Savannah Bananas on The CW, airing Sunday, July 27 (3:00–5:30 PM ET) from a sold-out Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, where the Bananas will face off against the Texas Tailgaters in front of more than 40,000 fans.
As part of the celebration, Matt DiBenedetto will attend Sunday’s game and throw out the ceremonial first pitch, connecting the worlds of motorsports and Banana Ball in one unforgettable weekend of entertainment and fan engagement.
“We’re thrilled to bring the excitement of the Savannah Bananas to NASCAR fans with this one-of-a-kind collaboration,” said Mike Perman, Senior Vice President, CW Sports. “Partnering with Viking Motorsports allows us to engage a passionate and loyal sports audience ahead of the Bananas’ broadcast debut on The CW.”
“We’re honored to represent The CW and the Savannah Bananas on track at Indianapolis,” said Don Sackett, owner of Viking Motorsports. “This partnership is a perfect reflection of what Viking Motorsports is all about—pushing boundaries, engaging fans, and having fun doing it. We’re excited to help bring the energy of Banana Ball to the NASCAR Xfinity Series with Matt behind the wheel.”
Founded in 2016, the Savannah Bananas have revolutionized the baseball experience with choreographed dances, flaming bats, celebratory antics, and nonstop surprises. With over 9.8 million followers on TikTok, the Bananas have surpassed every team in MLB, NFL, NBA, and NHL in social reach. Every game at Savannah’s historic Grayson Stadium has sold out since their inception.
This unique partnership is part of The CW’s continued commitment to growing its sports presence, which also includes the NASCAR Xfinity Series, WWE NXT, Grand Slam Track, AVP beach volleyball, ACC and Pac-12 football, and PBA professional bowling beginning in 2026.
About The CW Network
The CW is America’s fifth major broadcast network, reaching 100% of U.S. television households. The CW airs 15 hours of primetime programming weekly and over 400 hours of live sports annually, including the NASCAR Xfinity Series, WWE NXT, ACC and Pac-12 football, Grand Slam Track, and AVP beach volleyball. The ad-supported CW App—available for free on all major platforms—has been downloaded over 100 million times and offers access to the latest episodes and an expansive content library. The CW is 75%-owned by Nexstar Media Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: NXST). For more, visit www.cwtv.com.
About Viking Motorsports
Viking Motorsports is a full-time, competitive race team competing in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. Built on a foundation of performance, innovation, and results, the team is committed to providing elite-level equipment and resources to its drivers. With a relentless drive to succeed, Viking Motorsports is focused on competing at the highest level and delivering victories for its fans, partners, and team members. Forged to Race.
Learn more at www.vikingmotorsports.racing.
Follow us on social media:
- X: @VKNGMotorsports
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