Daytona 500 television ratings trend upward, in Los Angeles too

According to early numbers, an average of 15.6 million watched Sunday's Daytona 500 NASCAR race on Fox. The race was won by 20-year-old newcomer Trevor Bayne. The Nielsen Media Research numbers suggest ratings were up in nine of the nation's 10 largest markets, including Los Angeles.

If the final numbers hold, this would be the most-watched NASCAR race since 2008.

Ratings increased by 46% in Los Angeles, according to the early numbers. Among the top 10 markets, Los Angeles was second only to Chicago, which saw a 61% increase.

-- Diane Pucin