ESPN+ has introduced a new addition to its programming with live car auctions, becoming the new home for Mecum Auctions. According to Front Office Sports’ Ryan Glasspiegel, ESPN+ will stream Mecum’s 11 annual events, covering over 180 hours of live auction action.
The multiyear deal kicks off Thursday with three days of coverage from Glendale, Arizona, where 2,000 vehicles will be auctioned at State Farm Stadium. Previously, Mecum Auctions aired on Warner Bros. Discovery’s Motor Trend network, along with NBC Sports Network and Velocity.
Mecum Auctions host Scott Hoke announced the transition on X, stating: “Many of you have asked about @Mecum Auctions’ new TV home. Happy to let you know that we’ll be on @ESPNPlus starting tomorrow March 20, 3-9pm ET from Glendale AZ! pic.twitter.com/erOGhQvFLa”
— Scott Hoke (@ScottHoke1) March 19, 2025
“The thought was we needed to expose the collector car hobby and Mecum Auctions to more than just the traditional hardcore car enthusiasts, to bring new eyeballs to what we do,” Mecum’s CEO Dave Magers told FOS. “That worked very well for us until NBC Sports no longer existed, leading us to Motor Trend, and we’ve always envisioned going back to a broader sports network. Naturally, when discussing sports, ESPN is the first name that arises. We are also thrilled about this partnership with ESPN+, as we believe it represents the future of broadcasting—streaming.”
While some may not view a car auction as a sporting event, these auctions can become fiercely competitive. This was evidenced during Mecum Kissimmee in January, where intense bidding led to thrilling moments, as seen in this tweet:
“This was the most incredible and intense car auction I have ever seen‼️@mecum_auctions had the entire crowd rallying behind the 2 millionaires duking it out at the world’s largest collector car auction. Back and forth, back and forth…SOLD for $6.4 million dollars!! 💥💰🙌… pic.twitter.com/lE4WJF5VFC
— Brian McCauley (@Dallas_Mortgage) January 21, 2025
Magers highlighted that the younger demographic of ESPN+ aligns well with Mecum Auctions’ target audience, stating that they have observed a rising interest from the 25-to-35 age group at their auctions over the past three years. He believes that ESPN+ will help broaden their viewer base beyond traditional car collectors, noting, “The younger generation is not only interested in the cars from their youth but also has a strong fascination with ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s American muscle cars.”
