35 Years of Mazda Miata: From Grassroots to Professional Racing Legacy
The Mazda MX-5 Cup racing series revolutionized Miata motorsports when it launched alongside the NC model in 2006. Initially run by SCCA Pro Racing, the series quickly established itself as a premier development platform for aspiring professional racers.
The series produced notable champions like Jim Daniels, Eric Foss, and Michael Cooper, while its Club Racer Shootout program launched careers of IMSA winners Elliott Skeer and Patrick Gallagher, plus NASCAR talent Connor Zilisch.
Mazda race cars competing on circuit
The NC-based MX-5 Cup car expanded beyond its original series, winning championships in Pirelli World Challenge's Touring Car A category and forming the foundation for the new Spec MX-5 class in SCCA competition.
Mazda racecars compete on track
In IMSA Continental Tire SportsCar Challenge, the NC Miata competed successfully against other manufacturers, culminating in Stevan McAleer and Chad McCumbee's 2017 championship with CJ Wilson Racing.
Man in racing suit beside Mazda
The 2016 introduction of the ND chassis marked a new era with factory-built Global Mazda MX-5 Cup cars. These identical spec racecars, now built by Flis Performance, feature left- or right-hand drive capability for international competition. The 300th ND MX-5 Cup car was recently completed, demonstrating the platform's widespread adoption.
Mazda race driver in suit
The series continues to thrive with 36 drivers competing in 2025's season opener at Daytona. Recent years have seen the first two-time champions in Jared Thomas and Gresham Wagner, while the platform has expanded into various racing series and track day environments.
As Mazda looks toward the next generation of the MX-5, the Miata's racing legacy remains secure as one of the most competed vehicles in motorsports history.
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