Racing fans will witness a historic moment as the Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup makes its oval-track debut at Martinsville Speedway on October 26, 2024. This groundbreaking non-championship race represents a unique convergence of sports car and stock car racing traditions.

The initiative emerged from collaborative discussions between IMSA, NASCAR, Martinsville Speedway, and Mazda Motorsports, aimed at creating opportunities for drivers to showcase versatility across different racing disciplines. A successful pre-event test on August 26 confirmed the viability of MX-5 Cup cars on Martinsville's half-mile oval.

Key Details:

• 100-lap race format
• Standard road-racing configuration cars
• Open to drivers from various racing series
• Part of the Virginia is for Racing Lovers 300 weekend
• First open-top car race at Martinsville since the 1950s

"NASCAR today isn't the same as it was 10 years ago," explains Jonathan Applegate, Mazda Motorsports Senior Manager. "This event allows the Mazda MX-5 Cup Series to position itself as a pathway to higher ranks of racing, whether in sports cars or stock cars."

Clay Campbell, Martinsville Speedway president, anticipates an exciting show: "The fans love MX-5 Cup races. Everyone's curious to see what it's all about." True to Martinsville tradition, the winner will receive the iconic grandfather clock trophy.

This experimental crossover event could mark a significant turning point in American motorsports, potentially opening new opportunities for drivers and series alike while bridging the gap between different racing disciplines.

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