Top Radio News

Sports Radio Audience Delivers Upscale Impact

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, February 23, 2026 | 12:38pm CT

Cumulus Media | Westwood One

Sports AM/FM stations featuring play-by-play and sports/talk continue to post strong gains in both audience and revenue, according to a new analysis from Cumulus Media | Westwood One's Audio Active Group. The blog reports the number of sports-formatted AM/FM stations has increased 14% over the past decade, while revenue shares have surged 38%, based on Miller Kaplan data. The format now reaches one in six American men and ranks third out of 24 AM/FM formats in household income.

Nielsen data shows sports dominates AM/FM streaming, ranking number one among adults 18-34 and 25-54. Among 18-34s, sports holds a 3.7 overall AM/FM share but posts a 13.9% streaming share -- nearly four times higher. For 25-54s, the format's 5.1 total share jumps to a 14.2% streaming share. Even among adults 35 , sports' 5.4% total share doubles to 11.4% via streaming.

According to Edison Research's "Share of Ear" study, 61% of all U.S. sports audio time spent occurs on AM/FM radio, followed by podcasts at 27% and SiriusXM at 12%. Listening is strongest during midday (33%), morning drive (29%) and afternoon drive (24%). Over-the-air sports listening primarily happens in the car (57%), though total AM/FM sports listening is evenly split between home and car when streaming is included.

The report also highlights growth in national sports broadcasts. Nielsen indicates audiences for Westwood One's NFL prime-time broadcasts have grown 26% over the past decade, while its NCAA March Madness coverage reaches 20 million Americans annually.

Research from MRI-Simmons suggests sports AM/FM listeners are more engaged than sports TV viewers across multiple measures of sports passion, including for NFL and college basketball. The format also generates strong interest in sports betting.

Financially, sports AM/FM listeners rank among the most affluent radio audiences, with household incomes rising 17% since 2020. Compared to sports TV viewers, the radio audience is more likely to be employed, college educated and married.

The blog notes sports listeners over-index across several major purchase categories. They are 24% more likely than average Americans to spend $1,000 or more on auto repair and maintenance, are frequent auto parts shoppers, and are more likely to be in the market for new vehicles or lease agreements. Luxury auto brands perform particularly well among the format's audience.

Financial services and travel brands also show strong potential, with sports listeners over-indexing for banks, credit cards, hotels, airlines and cruises. Case studies cited in the blog found hotel sponsorships tied to Westwood One sports content delivered measurable brand equity gains.

Emerging technology is another area of opportunity. A recent Quantilope study found sports AM/FM listeners are more engaged with artificial intelligence and more willing to pay for AI services compared to the total U.S. population.

The findings underscore sports AM/FM radio's continued growth and its value as a platform reaching an attentive, upscale and purchase-ready audience across a broad range of categories.

Read the entrie blog post here.

Civic Media Revamps News/Talk Format in Wisconsin

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, February 23, 2026 | 12:22pm CT

Civic Media

Civic Media has rolled out a revamped News/Talk format across several of its Wisconsin stations, expanding its programming lineup and digital content offerings. The updated Civic Media Network will air on WXCO in Wausau, WMDX in Madison, WAUK in Milwaukee, and WISS in Oshkosh-Appleton.

As part of the refresh, the company is introducing three new weekday shows to its daily schedule. "Daybreak with Brian and Jamie" will air from 6-9 a.m. CT, hosted by Jamie Martinson and Brian Noonan. The program is designed to anchor the morning lineup with a mix of news, commentary and conversation.

"The Jeff Santos Show" will be heard from 2-5pm, followed by "Nite Lite With Pete Schwaba and Greg Bach" from 5-7pm, rounding out the afternoon and early evening schedule.

Civic Media Vice President of Product Aaron Carreno said the changes reflect the company's focus on expanding both its on-air presence and digital footprint.

"We're excited to refresh our programming with the addition of new radio shows and a continuous stream of digital content that meets audiences wherever they are," Carreno said. "By strengthening both our on-air and digital presence, we're creating more opportunities for our community to connect, discover, and stay informed-anytime, anywhere."

JVC Ups Mallory, Adds Miller in Fort Walton Beach

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, February 23, 2026 | 12:10pm CT

Scott Mallory

JVC Broadcasting has promoted Scott Mallory to Operations Manager for its Forth Walton Beach cluster and added industry veteran Brad Miller as Production and Promotions Lead.

Mallory, who also handles afternoons on WHWY, steps into the operations role after taking on increasing responsibilities over the past year, performing many of its core duties. In his new capacity, he will oversee day-to-day programming operations, coordinate staff efforts, and manage brand execution across the company's Fort Walton Beach stations.

JVC leadership said Mallory had grown naturally into the role through his leadership and consistent execution, calling the promotion a reflection of both his work and the respect he has earned within the organization.

Alongside the promotion, JVC has appointed Miller as Production and Promotions Lead. He brings more than 25 years of radio experience, including work in programming, production, imaging and promotions. Management said his background and creative expertise are expected to enhance the cluster's sound, brand presence and promotional strategy.

BFOA Announces 2026 Honorees of the Leadership Awards

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, February 23, 2026 | 11:59am CT

Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA)

The Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) is proud to announce the 2026 recipients of the Leadership Awards, Lowry Mays Excellence in Broadcasting Award, and Chairman's Award. The awards honor some of the biggest names and most influential leaders in broadcasting. The honorees will be presented with their award at the BFOA Annual Breakfast, Wednesday, April 22, at 7am during the NAB Show in Las Vegas.

The 2026 Leadership Award honorees are:

• Heather Cohen, President, The Weiss Agency
• April Carty-Sipp, Executive Vice President, Industry Affairs at NAB
• Michael J. Hayes, President, Hearst Television
• Mike Hulvey, President & Chief Executive Officer, Radio Advertising Bureau
• Chad Matthews, President, ABC-Owned Television Stations
• Alissa Pollack, Executive Vice President, Global Music Marketing, iHeart

The Leadership Awards are given annually in recognition of career contributions to the broadcast industry and the community at large.

The 2026 Lowry Mays Excellence in Broadcasting Award honoree is John Catsimatidis, Owner & Chief Executive Officer of WABC Radio & Red Apple Media. This award is bestowed annually on an individual in broadcasting whose work exemplifies innovation, community service, advocacy, and entrepreneurship.

The 2026 Chairman's Award honoree is Deborah Norville, Emmy-winning Broadcast Journalist The Chairman's Award is bestowed on an individual in recognition of their contribution to the broadcast industry.

The Broadcasters Foundation Annual Breakfast is complimentary to everyone in broadcasting, although registration is strictly required. To register, broadcast professionals may click here.

Santita Jackson to Continue ''Keep Hope Alive''

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, February 23, 2026 | 3:40pm CT

''Keep Hope Alive''

Following the death of Rev. Jesse L. Jackson last week, Premiere Networks announced that the long-running weekend program "Keep Hope Alive with Rev. Jesse Jackson" will continue under the leadership of Santita Jackson, the program's executive producer and eldest daughter of the civil rights leader.

For more than two decades, Rev. Jackson used the nationally syndicated show to provide commentary on news and public affairs, interviewing prominent figures in politics, culture and entertainment. Over the years, guests included leaders such as Nelson Mandela and entertainer Michael Jackson, reflecting the program's wide-ranging focus.

As the show moves forward, Santita Jackson will present archival conversations from its 20-year history while adding new commentary and interviews addressing current events. The two-hour program airs Sundays from 8-10am ET in multiple markets nationwide, including Los Angeles, Chicago, Washington DC, and Houston.

Julie Talbott, President of Premiere Networks, said the company was "deeply saddened" by Jackson's passing and described Santita Jackson as well positioned to continue her father's legacy and commitment to social justice.

Bob Pittman, Chairman and CEO of iHeartMedia, called Jackson "a transformative voice in American life," noting a working relationship that dates back to "The Jesse Jackson Show" in the 1990s. Pittman said the company looks forward to honoring Jackson's lasting impact on national dialogue and culture through the continuation of the program.

Salem Podcast Network Launches The Danielle Gill Show

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, February 23, 2026 | 12:31pm CT

Danielle Gill

Salem Podcast Network, a division of Salem Media, will debut a new podcast, The Danielle Gill Show, on Monday, February 23. Hosted by conservative author Danielle Gill, the program will feature analysis of cultural issues, politics, news and social trends. New episodes are scheduled for release four times per week across the Salem Podcast Network.

Gill said the podcast is intended to create space for conversations about culture, politics and Christianity, and will extend discussions she has been having about faith, family and living with conviction in what she describes as a liberal culture. The show will include interviews with guests addressing cultural debates and ideas that have influenced Western society.

Gill is the author of YGod: An Intelligent Discussion on the Relevance of Faith and The Choice: The Abortion Divide in America. She has produced digital content for PragerU and has served as an ambassador for Turning Point USA. She also appears regularly across national media platforms, including Salem properties.

Phil Boyce, Senior Vice President of Content at Salem Media, said Gill represents a new generation of conservative voices and reflects the direction of the network's audience growth strategy.

Gill resides in North Texas with her husband, Congressman Brandon Gill, and their two children. She is the daughter of conservative author and commentator Dinesh D'Souza, who said he plans to appear on the podcast.

The Danielle Gill Show will be available on major podcast platforms and distributed nationwide by Salem Podcast Network.

Jeff Liberman Exits Entravision After 25 Years

RADIO ONLINE | Friday, February 20, 2026 | 7:19pm CT

Jeff Liberman

Entravision Communications has parted ways with longtime President and Chief Operating Officer Jeff Liberman, ending a nearly 26-year run with the Spanish-language media company that owns 46 Spanish-language radio stations.

Liberman's departure closes one of the longest executive tenures in U.S. Hispanic radio. He joined Entravision Communications in 2000 following its acquisition of Latin Communications Group, where he had expanded operations from two stations to 17 across California, Colorado, New Mexico and Washington, DC.

He was named President of Entravision's Radio Division shortly after the acquisition and led the unit through a period of national expansion and digital transformation. During his tenure, the company launched the Entravision Radio Network, reaching 94% of the U.S. Latino market by 2014 through syndication efforts. He also established Entravision Solutions, a national representation firm designed to monetize broadcast inventory for partner networks.

Liberman advanced to Chief Operating Officer in 2012 and was appointed President and COO in 2017. In that role, he oversaw 98 media properties across 31 national offices, including television affiliates aligned with Fox, The CW and Univision, as well as dozens of Spanish-language radio stations.

According to his LinkedIn profile, Liberman centralized TV master control operations, generating $1.5 million in annual savings, migrated traffic systems to the cloud to strengthen cybersecurity protections, and led the launch of multiple podcasts and radio programs as part of a digital audio growth strategy. He also directed more than 270 weekly newscasts and helped guide expansion of the company's digital division through acquisitions and the appointment of a Chief Digital Officer.

WGR Brand Expands to Rochester on 95.7 FM

RADIO ONLINE | Friday, February 20, 2026 | 12:12pm CT

WROC-FM Rochester

Audacy is expanding its WGR Sports Radio brand into the Rochester market, rebranding WROC-FM as WGR Rochester on 95.7 FM. The change takes effect at 11pm ET on February 22. While the WROC call letters will remain, the station will carry WGR Rochester branding and air a lineup built around WGR's Buffalo-based programming, supplemented by a locally focused show for Rochester listeners.

The move follows a recently announced FM simulcast expansion of WGR Sports Radio in Buffalo and extends the brand's reach across Western New York.

Under the new format, Rochester mornings will begin with "The Jeremy and Joe Show" from 5:30-10am, followed by "The Northtown Automotive Extra Point Show" from 10am-noon. "Sabres Live" will air from noon-1pm, delivering updates on the NHL's Buffalo Sabres.

At 1pm, Gene Battaglia will host "The Sports Bar," a Rochester-focused program dedicated to local sports coverage, running until 3pm. "Schopp and Bulldog" will round out the weekday lineup from 3-7pm.

Tim Wenger, Senior Vice President and Market Manager for Audacy Buffalo and Rochester, said the hybrid approach combines WGR's established sports programming with a dedicated local presence tailored to Rochester fans. He noted the expansion strengthens coverage of Buffalo-area teams while maintaining a local sports voice in the Rochester market.

With the launch of WGR Rochester, Audacy further extends WGR's footprint across Western New York.

Bustos Media to Mark America's 250th Anniversay

RADIO ONLINE | Friday, February 20, 2026 | 11:00am CT

Bustos Media

Bustos Media has announced plans to mark America's 250th anniversary by airing 250 Public Service Announcements recognizing the contributions of immigrants to the United States. The campaign, titled "U.S.A Land of Opportunity," will spotlight outstanding immigrants from around the world and their role in building the nation.

The PSAs will air across Bustos Media stations for 50 days leading up to July 4 and will be produced in both English and Spanish.

President and CEO Amador Bustos said the project is the company's contribution to the national celebration. He named Chief Revenue Officer Edward Distel as executive producer of the series.

Distel, who has worked with Bustos Media for 34 years and has more than 50 years of broadcast experience, is a Vietnam Special Forces veteran who received a Purple Heart and other decorations for valor during his military service.

"As I proudly served in the armed forces to defend this nation, I will proudly honor the many immigrant men and women who have made America great," Distel said in a statement.

In addition to airing on Bustos Media stations, the company said the PSAs will be made available at no charge to other broadcasters interested in carrying the series.

Chairman Carr Announces Pledge America Campaign

RADIO ONLINE | Friday, February 20, 2026 | 3:42pm CT

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has launched the Pledge America Campaign, calling on the nation's broadcasters to support the upcoming 250th anniversary of American independence with patriotic and civic-focused programming.

The initiative aligns with the White House's Salute to America 250 Task Force, established by President Donald J. Trump to coordinate a yearlong celebration culminating on July 4, 2026. Festivities are set to begin Memorial Day 2025 and continue through the semiquincentennial.

Carr said the Pledge America Campaign encourages broadcasters to air content that promotes civic education, national pride and American history in support of the anniversary. He noted that broadcasters, consistent with their public interest obligations, are positioned to provide programming responsive to the needs and interests of their local communities.

In a statement, Carr said the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence offers an opportunity to reflect on the nation's founding principles and its history. He cited concerns about declining civics education and suggested broadcasters could help address the issue through locally tailored programming.

Examples outlined by the FCC include running public service announcements or specials focused on civic education and American history; highlighting local historic sites during news programming; beginning the broadcast day with the national anthem or Pledge of Allegiance; airing music by composers such as John Philip Sousa, Aaron Copland, Duke Ellington and George Gershwin; offering daily "Today in American History" features; and partnering with community organizations engaged in related efforts.

Participation in the Pledge America Campaign is voluntary. Broadcasters may indicate their commitment and highlight relevant programming to their audiences as part of the nationwide observance leading up to America's 250th birthday in 2026.

Report: Podcasting Tops 53% Monthly Reach in U.S.

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, February 19, 2026 | 1:10pm CT

Triton Digital

Podcasting now reaches more than half of the U.S. population each month, with 53.6% of Americans listening to or watching podcasts, according to Triton Digital's 2025 U.S. Podcast Report. The annual study, powered by IAB Tech Lab-certified Podcast Metrics and Demos surveys of 12,000 monthly listeners, highlights continued audience growth, expanding video consumption and evolving advertiser opportunities.

Monthly reach is strongest among adults 18-34 at 68.7%, followed by 35-54 at 62.1%, while 35% of those 55+ report monthly usage. Hispanic consumers (66.1%) and Black/African American consumers (59.0%) index strongly for monthly reach.

Podcast listeners skew younger, more educated and more affluent than the general population, with above-average representation among college graduates and households earning $100,000 or more.

In RSS-based new episode downloads, Apple Podcasts leads with 49.7% share, followed by Spotify at 15.7% and iHeartRadio at 7.6%. However, YouTube continues to gain ground as the most-used platform overall for podcast consumption. In 2025, 37.7% of monthly listeners say they use YouTube most often, compared with 24.6% for Spotify and 11.3% for Apple Podcasts.

Listening remains the dominant format, but video continues to grow. Thirteen percent of the monthly audience listens only, 7% watches only, and 80% both listen and watch podcasts.

Comedy leads all genres in monthly reach at 41.5%, followed by News (26.5%) and Society & Culture (22.8%). Science, History and Fiction skew toward listening, while Music and Sports over-index for watching. Comedy bridges both behaviors.

The influx of new listeners is helping drive growth in niche categories such as Kids & Family, Arts and Music, with as much as 45% of Kids & Family consumers reporting they are new to podcasting within the past year.

Among the top 20 podcasts by downloads in 2025, nine are News programs. NPR News Now ranks as the most downloaded podcast of the year.

The iHeart Audience Network leads in overall downloads among sales networks, while "Bulwark Takes" tops the list of new podcast launches based on average weekly downloads.

As audiences diversify, new listeners show strong purchase intent across categories including wireless providers, online shopping, quick-service restaurants and weight-loss products.

Triton says it plans to expand its tools in 2026 to deliver deeper insights and support industry collaboration as podcasting continues to evolve.

The full report is available from Triton Digital at TritonRankers.com

iHeartMedia Study Highlights Bicultural Latino Power

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, February 19, 2026 | 12:51pm CT

iHeartMedia

iHeartMedia has released a new consumer study examining Bicultural Latinos, those who identify as equally American and Hispanic, finding the group represents a growing economic and cultural force shaping the next era of U.S. growth.

The report, "New American Consumer: Bicultural Latinos," developed in partnership with Collage Group, indicates Bicultural Latinos now account for nearly 40 percent of all U.S. Latinos. The study describes the audience as culture-driven and identity-focused, bridging both American and Hispanic influences rather than choosing between them.

According to the findings, two-thirds of Bicultural Latinos say they identify equally as Hispanic and American, and 78 percent report feeling more connected to their heritage today than a year ago. The study links that cultural confidence to economic momentum. U.S. Latino purchasing power has reached $4.1 trillion, supported by a population of nearly 70 million. Latino GDP has grown from $2.2 trillion in 2015 to $4 trillion, a pace more than twice that of non-Latinos. If measured independently, the study notes, U.S. Latinos would rank as the fifth-largest economy in the world.

"Bicultural Latinos are not just an audience - they are a cultural vanguard," said Enrique Santos, President and Chief Creative Officer of iHeartLatino. He added that brands must prioritize cultural intelligence over language translation to build long-term loyalty.

The study finds language does not solely determine engagement. Nearly 90 percent of Bicultural Latinos typically consume audio content in English, though one in three prefer Spanish for music or radio. Advertising preferences are split: about one-third want ads to match the language of the content, another third prefer English, and the remainder are flexible.

Researchers conclude that shared values and lived experiences outweigh language alone in driving connection.

Audio plays a significant role in daily life for Bicultural Latinos. Citing data from Nielsen, the study notes broadcast radio reaches nine in ten Latinos monthly. Among Bicultural Latinos, 92 percent listen to radio in English and 78 percent in Spanish, with 65 percent preferring to listen equally in both languages.

The report also finds:

• 98 percent listen to music weekly
• 63 percent listen to podcasts weekly
• 69 percent engage with live sports through audio

Additionally, 96 percent say they seek human-led content. Many report listening with family members and sharing audio experiences, reinforcing audio's role as both cultural ritual and communal touchpoint.

The study highlights high levels of brand openness within the group. Seventy-three percent say they are willing to try new brands. Bicultural Latinos are 60 percent more likely to purchase from brands that reflect them and 61 percent are willing to pay more for those brands. Sixty-nine percent say they value brands that engage during cultural moments.

They are also 22 percent more likely than the general population to make a purchase after hearing a radio advertisement.

"As the report makes clear, there is a significant opportunity for brands to deepen their connection with this audience," said Lainie Fertick, President of iHeartMedia Insights. She noted that collaboration with culturally aligned creators and trusted voices across broadcast radio and podcasts can help marketers build credibility and drive action.

The study concludes that for Bicultural Latinos, culture, not simply language, is the primary driver of engagement, and that audio remains a key platform for reaching this expanding and influential audience.

Sydney Sperling Upped to CMN Affiliate Sales Director

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, February 19, 2026 | 7:35pm CT

Sydney Sperling

Compass Media Networks has promoted Sydney Sperling to Director of Affiliate Sales, expanding her responsibilities across the company's national audio portfolio. In her new role, Sperling will help develop affiliate sales strategy and lead growth efforts for programming including The Anna & Raven Show, Intelligence for Your Life, Rick Dees, Deja Vu, and SPECai, among others.

"Sydney has consistently demonstrated exceptional sales skills and a deep understanding of the affiliate marketplace," said Nancy Abramson. "This promotion is well deserved and recognizes her ability to build strong partnerships and deliver results."

A 2023 graduate of Trinity College, Sperling joined Compass Media Networks in July 2023. The company said she has played a key role in strengthening affiliate relationships and supporting the growth of its syndicated programming lineup.

"I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity and excited to step into this new role," Sperling said. "Compass Media Networks has an amazing team and a powerful lineup of content, and I look forward to continuing to support our affiliates and drive growth together."

Elaina Smith to Host CRS 2026 New Faces Show

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, February 19, 2026 | 1:18pm CT

Elaina Smith

Country Radio Broadcasters (CRB) has announced that award-winning personality Elaina Smith will return as host of the New Faces of Country Music Show at Country Radio Seminar 2026. The annual seminar is scheduled for March 18-20 at the Omni Nashville Hotel.

Smith, a nationally recognized Country radio host, currently leads the syndicated program Backstage Country. She is also known for her previous work on Nights with Elaina and her podcast, Breaking Thru with Elaina, which focuses on emerging artists and industry voices. A multi-year host of the New Faces event, Smith has become closely associated with the showcase, which is one of the most anticipated highlights of CRS.

Co-partnered by the Academy of Country Music and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, the New Faces of Country Music Show recognizes artists who have demonstrated significant momentum at country radio during the qualification period leading into CRS 2026.

This year's New Faces performers are Kelsey Hart, Ella Langley, Chase Matthew, John Morgan, Meghan Patrick and Josh Ross.

Additional information about CRS 2026 is available at CountryRadioSeminar.com.

iHeartPodcasts, Vaaka Launch "Boys & Girls" Podcast

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, February 19, 2026 | 7:49pm CT

Boys And Girls

iHeartPodcasts and Vaaka Media have debuted "Boys & Girls," a new original podcast exploring the complexities of arranged marriage and the search for "desi love" within South Asian communities worldwide. Hosted by Radhika Viswanathan, the weekly series launched February 19 and is available on the iHeartRadio app and major podcast platforms.

The show examines the cultural dynamics behind arranged marriages, a practice chosen by 93% of Indians, where factors such as caste, class, family ties and geography often stand in for traditional notions of compatibility. These relationships are frequently facilitated by extended family members, matchmakers and astrologers, with romantic love sometimes developing later.

In many desi communities, marriage remains a defining milestone, with unmarried adults often still viewed as "boys" or "girls," regardless of professional or personal accomplishments. The podcast seeks to give voice to those who have navigated that experience.

Viswanathan, who draws on her own time in the arranged marriage system, said the process can feel overwhelming. "I was just beginning to explore who I was. Choosing breakfast was hard enough, so choosing a life partner made my head spin," she said. "It felt like I was in a fishbowl, watched by everyone around me."

Produced alongside Samyuktha Varma and Menaka Raman, the series will feature conversations with individuals who have gone through the arranged marriage process, sharing perspectives on expectations, identity and autonomy.

The first episode introduces listeners to the structure and traditions behind arranged marriages. New episodes will be released weekly on Thursdays.

FCC Plans First Reserved-Band FM Translator Window

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, February 18, 2026 | 1:23pm CT

Federal Communications Commission

The Federal Communications Commission is moving to bolster noncommercial broadcasting by outlining plans for the first-ever filing window for new FM translator construction permits in the reserved portion of the FM band.

In a Public Notice adopted February 18 (FCC 26-10), the Commission directed its Media Bureau to open a future filing window for new noncommercial educational (NCE) FM translators operating in the 88-92 MHz band. That segment of the dial is reserved for community, educational and public service programming.

The planned window would provide noncommercial FM, low power FM and noncommercial AM stations their first opportunity to apply for a noncommercial translator in the reserved band, allowing stations to extend their coverage and service to additional listeners.

The Commission said it is seeking comment on eligibility requirements and potential application caps designed to prevent speculative filings and ensure equitable access to spectrum. In prior filing windows, the FCC has imposed limits - including a 10-application cap - to reduce mutually exclusive applications, curb mass filings and streamline processing.

Those restrictions have also been used to align with mandates under the Local Community Radio Act of 2010, which requires the agency to preserve licensing opportunities for secondary services such as low power FM stations.

By structuring the upcoming window with eligibility standards and filing limits, the FCC said it aims to promote efficiency, prevent gamesmanship and preserve spectrum for future community-based services.

The action was approved by Chairman Carr and Commissioners Gomez and Trusty.

97.1 The Ticket Extends Lions with Multi-Year Deal

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, February 18, 2026 | 1:31pm CT

WXYT-FM (97.1 The Ticket) Detroit

WXYT-FM (97.1 The Ticket) has announced a multi-year extension of its broadcast partnership with the Detroit Lions, continuing its role as the team's radio home. Under the renewed agreement, the station will broadcast all preseason, regular season and postseason games, maintaining its long-standing connection with Lions fans across Detroit and the surrounding region.

Debbie Kenyon, Senior Vice President and Market Manager of Audacy Detroit, said the extension reflects the station's commitment to delivering comprehensive game-day coverage and strengthening its relationship with listeners. She described the Lions as a symbol of pride and resilience for the city and said the partnership helps connect fans directly to the action on the field.

Rod Wood, President and CEO of the Lions, said the continuation of the agreement ensures the team's games remain on one of the area's most prominent sports radio outlets, reinforcing its connection to fans.

As part of the partnership, the station will continue airing the "Lions Review Show," hosted by Lions Radio Network play-by-play voice Dan Miller alongside 97.1 The Ticket hosts Will Burchfield and Bob Wojnowski. The program airs Mondays during the season from 6-7pm ET beginning August 31.

Throughout the season, Lions quarterback Jared Goff and Head Coach Dan Campbell are scheduled to make weekly appearances on the station's morning and midday programs. "Costa & Jansen with Heather" airs from 6-10am ET, followed by "The Karsch & Anderson Show" from 10am-2pm ET.