Kernan Sparks Outrage with “Xenophobic” NASCAR Critique

Ex-pit reporter targets Leigh Diffey’s accent and series format

A former NASCAR pit reporter has ignited a firestorm on social media, leveling harsh criticism at the current state of the Cup Series and the commentary of announcer Leigh Diffey.

Accusations Fly Over Accent and Stage Racing

In a post the reporter, John Kernan, later characterized as “xenophobic,” he expressed extreme dissatisfaction with NASCAR’s direction. Kernan, a former ESPN host, specifically targeted Diffey’s Australian-American accent, stating, “if I want to hear that accent, I’ll watch Formula 1.” He also declared his discontent with stage racing, calling it “SUCKS.”

I think I’m done with NASCAR. After further review stage racing SUCKS! And I’m sure Leigh Diffey is a great guy but, if I want to hear that accent, I’ll watch Formula 1. Sorry, guess I’m xenophobic.

— John Kernan (@JohnKernan) March 29, 2024

Fan Backlash and Diffey’s Past Experience

The remarks drew swift and strong condemnation from NASCAR fans who defended Diffey. Many X users called Kernan’s comments shallow and suggested he was being overly critical. One commenter expressed hope that the post was influenced by alcohol, adding, “Leigh Diffey clearly loves his job and brings it hard every race.”

Kernan later attempted to clarify his position, reiterating his dislike for Diffey’s accent in the context of NASCAR broadcasting, though he insisted his primary issue was with stage racing. This sentiment echoed a past experience shared by Diffey on the ‘Off Track with Hinch and Rossi’ podcast. Diffey recounted an audition for a TNT play-by-play role in 2010, where he believes he was ultimately passed over due to his accent.

“I thought, ‘I’m just going to come in do like five minutes of commentary. They had their full production team there. … They made me call about 150 laps.

Anyway, it went really, really well. I learned many years later, that um … how do I say this politely? I think that I did get the job, but ultimately I didn’t get the job, because the big, big boss at Turner didn’t prefer to have an accent calling the Cup races.”

—Leigh Diffey, Play-by-Play Announcer

Differing Views on Race Announcing

Diffey has become a prominent voice in motorsports, serving as NBC Sports’ lead play-by-play announcer for events including the NASCAR playoffs, following his work at the Olympics. His broadcasting style has been praised for its energy and ability to capture the on-track action.

This controversy highlights a broader discussion about announcer preferences and regional accents in sports broadcasting. For instance, in European football, commentators with strong regional accents are commonplace and often celebrated, as seen with personalities like the BBC’s former commentator John Motson.