Mazda Racing
Mazda MX-5 Race Car
GLOBAL MX-5 CUP SERIES
Mazda’s launch of the Global MX-5 Cup car in 2016 was a rousing success, and the momentum continues in the Battery Tender® Global MX-5 Cup presented by BFGoodrich Tires with the introduction of the 2019 MX-5’s higher performance (The ND2). The series is sanctioned by IndyCar and operated by Andersen Promotions.
Global MX-5 Cup provides a $200,000 scholarship for the ND2 champion, a $100,000 scholarship for the ND1 champion, a $75,000 scholarship for its ND2 rookie-of-the-year, along with more than $100,000 in contingency funds. MX-5 Cup is the first professional step on the MRT24 scholarship ladder.
The MX-5 Cup race cars start as brand new, complete MX-5 road cars from the Mazda factory in Hiroshima, Japan, before being transported to engineering development partner, Long Road Racing in Statesville, North Carolina where they are transformed into a complete race car. The process includes disassembly of the production car, followed by welding, paint, as well as a full roll cage and interior, and then assembly of the race car with more than 250 motorsports-specific parts. Other components of the car, including the Mazda SKYACTIV 2.0 liter engine, are sealed to ensure even competition and a cost-effective platform.
Cars are available turnkey and ready to race for a mere $68,000, an excellent value, especially when compared to similar race series. Just add in the race seat that fits best.
Global MX-5 Cup racers have the benefit of dedicated on-site team support at every race. This includes technical support and driver coaching as well as parts sales and service along with professional marketing and PR. There is even an option for drivers to rent a drive for a race weekend or a full season with an experienced, professional team at their disposal.
In 2019, the series features 12 rounds over six weekends with stops at Circuit of the Americas, Barber Motorsports Park, Road America, Mid-Ohio, Sports Car Course, Portland International Raceway, WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca and supporting the NTT IndyCar Series. All races are 45 minutes plus practice and qualifying sessions.