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Join Next League’s CEO David Nugent, a sports technology industry veteran and thought leader with over 20 years experience in the ever-changing technology services business. Tune in every week for insightful and engaging discussions on everything from artificial intelligence and fan engagement to the changing media landscape and the growth of women’s sports with the sports industry’s leading executives.
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Know What Is Next
Inside the Bid to Bring NASCAR’s Championship Back to Miami with Guillermo Santa Cruz
Few sports venues get a second shot at hosting a championship, but Homestead-Miami Speedway just did. President Guillermo Santa Cruz sits down with Dave to discuss what it takes to win back NASCAR’s biggest weekend, and how Miami’s global market, fan base, and drivers themselves shaped the decision.
Drawing on his experience across media and motorsports, Guillermo unpacks why Homestead’s racing quality and driver sentiment carry as much weight as market dynamics. He also shares how Miami’s role as a minority-majority, international hub is influencing NASCAR’s approach to engaging Hispanic and global audiences.
Guillermo also shares his thoughts around using AI in daily workflows, streaming fragmentation, and evolving media rights. He closes with the industry storylines he’s watching most closely as NASCAR and South Florida gear up for a packed 2026 sports calendar.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- How artificial intelligence, streaming fragmentation, and shifting media rights are shaping the way sports organizations capture and serve fans
- Why Guillermo sees Miami as a proving ground for NASCAR’s global expansion
- How Homestead-Miami Speedway won back NASCAR’s Championship Weekend by leaning on driver feedback and track quality
- How a STEM partnership with Miami-Dade schools is cultivating future fans and building a talent pipeline for motorsports
- What Guillermo carried from his Emmy-winning years in TV production into leading a world-class motorsports venue
Resources and Links:
Connect with Guillermo Santa Cruz on LinkedIn.
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