Kansas City is the latest city to lose an alternative radio station, as Audacy ALT 96.5 switches to sports/talk starting August 15. The new station, 96.5 The Fan (KFNZ), will carry programming previously available on 610 Sports Radio (KCSP-AM), which will be broadcast as a simulcast signal under the call sign KFNZ-AM.

This format change follows Audacy’s cutting of another ALT signal in Orlando in favor of R&B and hip-hop throwbacks. Fortunately for ALT 96.5 fans, not everything will go away: Church of Lazlo, with Lazlo, Slimfast and Snowcone was moved to the afternoon on 98.9 The Rock (KQRC).

96.5 The Fan will be the flagship radio station for the Kansas City Chiefs and will broadcast all preseason, regular season and postseason games, with simulcasts on 106.5 The Wolf (WDAF) for the 2024 season. The station will also broadcast men’s basketball and football games for the Kansas City Royals, Kansas State University and the University of Missouri.

KFNZ-AM offers the same programming and live reports on weekdays, with select Royals games broadcast exclusively there.

The opening lineup includes Bob Fescoe and Dusty Likins in the morning, Cody Tapp and Alex Gold at noon and The ride with Carrington Harrison in the afternoon.

Roxanne Marati, Market Manager for Audacy Kansas City, said, “Kansas City has the most passionate sports fans in the country and they deserve a one-stop shop for premium sports content year-round. This is an exciting time for sports in Kansas City and our exclusive partnership with the World Champion Chiefs, local content and engaging personalities with unmatched sports knowledge will fuel the fan base, bring listeners closer to the action and keep them connected to their favorite teams.”

Kim Hobbs, Vice President of Partnership Strategy and Development for the Kansas City Chiefs, commented, “We have enjoyed a strong partnership with Audacy over the past few years and are excited to have them launch 96.5 The Fan in the 2024 football season. In addition to being the new home of the Chiefs and the flagship station of the Chiefs Radio Network, 96.5 The Fan will have a strong lineup and offer exciting and entertaining sports content year-round across the FM stations.”